Wireless Train
The commercialization of a high-speed train with a wireless charging system is expected to be realized in 4 to 5 years.
The Korea Railroad Research Institute (KRRI) showcased its technology for wireless power transmission used in a high-speed at a railroad museum near Seoul on May 20.
KRRI successfully tested a method that wirelessly transmits 1MW of electricity using 60 kHz to the bottom of a high-speed train for power.
Dr. Lee Joon-ho at KRRI remarked, “If this technique is applied to a light train that uses 300 to 600 kW, it can be commercialized within 4 to 5 years.” Lee added, “To commercialize the method in a high-speed train that can move at 300 km/h, we are planning to conduct an additional study aimed at increasing the space between a collector plate and a feed line from 3 cm to 8 cm.”
The commercialization of this technique can reduce costs for the maintenance or replacement of components for electrical line facilities, and is also safer and more environmentally friendly. Overhead catenary systems like streetcar lines or pantographs, which are essential for delivering power to existing trains, will no longer be needed.
The costs for maintenance or replacement resulting from the wear of parts for electrical line facilities are expected to be lower. Accidents like the snapping of electrical lines will be prevented. There will also be no safety concerns for electric shocks.
Dr. Lee stressed, “1mw-level wireless and fast charging has never been tried before. Korea used the method in a high-speed train for the first time,” adding, “The technique has a competitive advantage to the extent that it can be exported.”