MD: Baltimore Light Rail Vehicles to Utilize ABB Traction Technology and Low Voltage Equipment in Major Retrofit

ABB has obtained a contract from Alstom Transport to supply new traction converters associated with the modernized train control management system (TCMS) and new electrical control panels for the overhaul of Baltimore’s entire fleet of 53 light rail vehicles operated by the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA).

ABB’s scope of supply includes the replacement of the existing traction equipment, using ABB’s  Bordline CC400 for propulsion with an integrated battery charger and the supply of a new train control system.

In addition to the converters, ABB will design and supply new electrical distribution and control panels, including ABB low voltage components and high-speed circuit breakers. These new electrical panels also will improve reliability of the train operation, using modern components that have a successful service-proven history in the railroad environment.

The vehicles will be refurbished by Alstom in their facility in Hornel, NY. The supply of the traction converters from ABB will comply with the “Buy America Act” requirements, and the delivery of all the different equipment will be over a period of approximately four years; delivery will start in the fall of 2014.

“ABB is proud to have been selected by Alstom to supply these essential elements of the propulsion and electrical controls for the Baltimore light rail vehicle overhaul project,” says Chris Poynter, vice president and general manager, Discrete Automation and Motion Division, ABB. “Our ability to engineer unique solutions, using our state-of-the art technologies, makes ABB a supplier of choice when it comes to Rail upgrade projects.”

The MTA light rail overhaul project will improve the safety, reliability, and service of the actual transportation system, which operates vehicles as old as 25 years and carry nearly 28,000 riders a day between downtown Baltimore, Hunt Valley and BWI Airport.