User:Galesch/sandbox

SlimKabel is a system aimed at conserving fuel on a consist of diesel electric locomotoves by switching locomotives to standbymode (same as notch 1 power). The switch between standby always happens in a "soft" controlled manner, no matter what the train driver does; this ensures that no harsh train action is caused by any SlimKabel operations. Practical comparison tests proved that up to 13% fuel may be saved, depending on train composition and track topography. The SlimKabel system needs no permanent technical installation into the locomotive control system; it may connected during pretrip locomotive preparation or even during a short stop enroute. The locomotive control system does not even "know" that SlimKabel is present. The service life of the SlimKabel system components is at least five years. A derivative of the SlimKabel system was developed to act as control interface between electric and diesel locomotives to allow running both types in a single consist under the control of one train driver. This was implimented on the Saldanha-Sishen ore line with great success, making the seamless upgrading of the 9E locomotives possible without any loss in tonnage transported.