A genset locomotive is a locomotive in which a number of smaller diesel engines are used rather than a single large engine. The term is short for "generator set."

Aspects of gensets A genset uses one to three small diesel engines to provide power. An operator is able to activate each engine as needed, with multi-engine gensets activating one for light work and more for heavier work, with excess engines turned off when the extra power is not needed.

Advantages More efficient design. Longer service life. Fuel savings. Ultra-low emissions. Improved wheel to rail adhesion capability. With multiple engine gensets, should one genset engine fail, the others can keep the train going, albeit at reduced speed. Removing a genset engine requires smaller size crane, while a larger crane is required to remove a traditional diesel prime mover.

Disadvantages More complex design. Greater capital cost. Greater deadweight. More engines, and the engines and generators do not use standard parts, reducing reliability. Multiple smaller truck type engines which lack the hardiness of a single large railroad type prime mover. Engineers do not like them because they are slow to get a cut of cars moving.

Table of produced gensets

Year Country Manufacturer Model HP Engines Axles Gauge Remark 2013 India Banaras Locomotive Works WDM-2G 2400 (3x800) B-B 1676mm 2006 United States National Railway Equipment NRE 3GS21B 2100 (3x700) Cummins B-B 1435mm 2014 South Africa Grindrod Locomotives 0710 1067mm 1000 mm 2010 United States Railserve Leaf 1200 (2x600) Cummins QSX15-L3 B-B 1435 mm 201? United States MotivePower MPI MP14B 1400 (2x700) Cummins QSK19C B-B 1435 mm 2007 United States Railpower Technologies Railpower RP14BD 1530 (2x765) Deutz BD2015 B-B 1435 mm 2004 United States Railpower Technologies Railpower GG20B Greengoat 300; 2000 using supplemental battery Caterpillar C9 B-B 1435 mm Large battery for extra power 201? United States Progress Rail Progress Rail PR43C 4300 (1x3600 + 1x700) Caterpillar C175C18 C-C 1435 mm 20?? United States Brookville Brookville BL20CG 2100 (3x700) Cummins B-B 1435 mm 20?? United States National Railway Equipment NRE 2GS16B-AU 1400 (2x700) Cummins B-B 1435 mm 2013 Germany Bombardier Transportation Traxx DE Multi-Engine 2880 (4x720) 1435 mm

See also

NRE 3GS21B Glossary of North American railway terms: Genset Railpower GGS2000D - a one-off.

References

External links What is a Genset locomotive?