Diesel Electric Locomotives

How it Works Machines 








Diesel Locomotives use electricity to drive forward motion despite the name 'diesel'.  A large diesel engine turns a shaft that drives a generator which makes electricity. This electrical energy powers large electric motors at the wheels called 'traction motors'.

Diesel Electric Locomotives
Some locomotives use DC generators and others use AC. Modern alternating current locomotives have better traction and adhesion and are used on trains that carry heavier loads. DC is still used because it is cheaper to manufacture.


To make a diesel electric locomotive power system it takes mechanical, electrical and control engineers. More details