ABB Effilight traction transformer

ABB’s Effilight traction transformer is designed to reduce the weight of onboard components and ensure more energy-efficient rail networks. The product can potentially reduce the total weight of a train’s traction component by up to 20% — equivalent to the weight of around 20 passengers. This weight optimisation can help train carriages attain the maximum load per wheel set and reduces wear.

Traction transformers feed power at safe voltages to essential train functions like traction, lighting, heating and ventilation, passenger information, brakes, signalling and communication. Traditionally made of iron and copper, these transformers are among the heavier components on a train. They use oil for insulation and cooling, but this contributes to a significant proportion of the transformer’s total weight.

The Effilight transformer uses a high-technology cell design that reduces the amount of oil needed by up to 70%, without compromising functionality. The technology enables weight reduction and energy savings for train manufacturers and rail operators. With the weight savings achieved through the innovative design, higher quantities of energy-efficient materials like copper can be used in the transformer, resulting in reduced energy losses by up to 50% compared with standard solutions of similar weight. This helps optimise energy consumption and total cost of ownership.