New Delhi: Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) has achieved a significant milestone in its Make in India initiatives for the rail transportation sector by commencing the supply of semi-high-speed underslung traction converters for the prestigious Vande Bharat Sleeper Train project. The project is being executed by a BHEL-led consortium in partnership with TRSL.
Flag-off Ceremony at Bengaluru Plant
To mark the commencement of supplies, a flag-off ceremony was held at BHEL’s Bengaluru plant. Ms. Bani Varma, Director (IS&P), BHEL, flagged off the first set of specially designed underslung traction converters in the presence of senior officials.
The event was also attended virtually by Mr. S. M. Ramanathan, Director (E, R&D), BHEL, and Mr. Umesh Chowdhary, Vice Chairman & Managing Director, TRSL, highlighting the collaborative effort behind the project.
Strategic Entry into Semi-High-Speed Propulsion
The supply of these traction converters marks BHEL’s strategic entry into the semi-high-speed propulsion segment. The converters are being dispatched to Kolkata, where they will be integrated into the final assembly of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains.
In addition to traction converters, BHEL has also developed and manufactured other critical propulsion equipment for the project, including traction motors and transformers, at its Bhopal and Jhansi manufacturing units, further strengthening indigenous manufacturing capabilities.
Advanced Technology for Enhanced Passenger Experience
The Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains will be equipped with state-of-the-art IGBT-based traction converters. The underslung design, which places propulsion equipment beneath the train coaches, frees up valuable onboard space, enabling improved passenger amenities and increasing the overall payload capacity.
Key features of the propulsion system include an operational speed of up to 160 kmph with a design speed of 176 kmph, along with high-efficiency power conversion supported by advanced thermal management systems. These features are designed to ensure reliability and comfort during long-distance overnight journeys.
Boost to Indigenous Rail Manufacturing
The development and supply of complex propulsion technologies for the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train project underscore BHEL’s role in advancing self-reliance in India’s railway and rolling stock sectors. The initiative aligns with national objectives of reducing import dependence while enhancing technological capabilities within the country.
About BHEL
Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) is India’s leading engineering and manufacturing enterprise in the energy and infrastructure sectors. With a strong presence across power generation, transmission, transportation, defence, and industrial equipment, BHEL continues to deliver world-class indigenous solutions and plays a pivotal role in India’s journey towards technological self-reliance and sustainable development.
