Achievements

· Introduction of Modular Design of Transformer in AC EMUs to increase passenger accommodation, simplify the installation and reduce the total manufacturing time.

· Introduction of Venturi type exhaust arrangement for 25 KVA inverters in self-generating AC coaches for improving the cooling efficiency and thereby increase the reliability of this equipment.

· Introduction of Electronic Thermostats and Pressure Transducers in air-conditioned coaches for better reliability.

· Introduction of rotomatic fans with larger zone of air delivery in coaches, towards improved ventilation and greater passenger comfort.

Important designs on hand

· AC-DC EMUs : Designs for AC-DC Dual Voltage EMUs with three phase transmission are being evolved. These EMUs are capable of operating under both 1500 V DC as well as 25,000 V AC OHE and have advanced features like GTO based converter-inverters, three phase traction motors and regenerative braking.

· AC EMUs with 3 phase propulsion: ICF is in the process of developing three phase propulsion for the 25 KV AC EMUs, with M/s.BHEL. The Project is a joint venture of Department of Electronics, Indian Railways and BHEL to develop three phase propulsion system indigenously.

Energy conservation in ICF

ICF has taken a systematic step in the form of various measures in energy conservation as early as in 1990-91. Some of the important measures are :

· Use of Translucent glass fibre sheets for improving natural lighting during day time, eliminating the need of switching ON lights during day time.

· Twilight switches for automatic switch OFF of Street lights.· Provision of automatic Switch OFF & Switch ON devices for shop light fittings of fluorescent tubes, mercury lamps and sodium vapour lamps.

· Staggered working of high capacity grit blasting machines and double cart furnaces.

· Replacement of fire bricks by ceramic woolfelt in certain furnaces.· Provision of power factor improvement capacitors

· Provision for switching OFF 50% of the lights and fans when not required.

· Use of Electronic Lamp Ballast and Regulators for Fluorescent lights & fans.

In the competition held in September '99 amongst HT Consumers in Tamilnadu, ICF has been adjudged one among the top 15 energy efficient units in Tamilnadu following a joint assessment done by TNEB and CII.