Akihabara News — JR Central has developed a prototype for a hydrogen engine hybrid system, intended to replace diesel trains on non-electrified routes, thereby aiming for zero CO2 emissions by 2050.
The initiative focuses on using hydrogen as a clean fuel source, either through fuel cells or hydrogen engines that generate electricity for train propulsion. This development builds upon JR Central’s existing Series HC85 hybrid system, enhancing it with hydrogen technology.
Since 2023, JR Central has been conducting simulated running tests for a fuel cell hybrid system. Now, in 2024, they have shifted their attention to perfecting a hydrogen engine hybrid system. A prototype has been built and will undergo rigorous performance evaluation and simulated running tests at JR Central’s Komaki Research Center. This facility is equipped to simulate the challenging conditions of steep gradients and frequent speed changes, critical for testing the system’s applicability in Japan’s varied terrain.
The prototype system incorporates a hydrogen engine, provided by i Labo Corporation, which has been adapted from an industrial diesel engine to suit railcar use. This engine is paired with a generator, a rolling stock control device, and batteries from the Series HC85.
The advantage of hydrogen engines lies in their durability, high power output, and efficiency, particularly under heavy loads. They also require less pure hydrogen compared to fuel cells, potentially simplifying logistics and reducing costs.
A key innovation in this prototype is the modification of the hydrogen engine to maintain a constant speed, optimal for rail applications. Additionally, a new control system has been integrated into the vehicle’s control device. This system optimizes the use of the hydrogen engine and batteries according to operational demands, whether it’s accelerating or navigating inclines, ensuring both efficiency and reliability.
This project is not merely about technological advancement but also about practical application on routes where diesel trains are the only current option. By adopting hydrogen, JR Central aims to keep services running in mountainous and rural areas without contributing to carbon emissions.
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