Kraków 2023-02-16
Electric locomotives Škoda 58E Series 131.
In the 1970s, Czechoslovakia intensively electrified its railways. However, there was no heavy electric locomotive for heavy freight trains. In addition, the trails were technically difficult. Railway workers managed to combine two electric locomotives, which was not always economical.
The Škoda 58E two-unit locomotive was developed in 1980 by the Škoda Plzeň company. Practically the first copy was a serial copy. Production lasted in the period 1980 - 1982. A total of 50 examples of type E 479.1 were built, which were marked Series 131. All locomotives were painted green with a yellow warning stripe. You can meet locomotives with a cream-colored belt.
After the collapse of Czechoslovakia, electric locomotives were operated by Slovak railways (marked as Øada 131). Since 2009, locomotives of the 131 series have been used on the southern railway lines in Poland, performing work for PKP Cargo.
T-T data of the Škoda 58E locomotive:
Bo'Bo' + Bo'Bo' axis system. Service weight 169,000 kg (2x 84,500 kg). Length 34.54 m (2 × 17.27 m). Width 2.94 m. Height 4.60 m. Wheel diameter 1.25 m. Supply voltage 3 kV DC. Engine type 9 Al 4846 zT. Number of engines 4 copies. Continuous power 4,480 kW. Hourly power 5,000 kW. Maximum tractive force 350 kN. Gear ratio 1:2.703. Design speed 100 km/h.
Both bodies of the locomotive are permanently connected to each other and can only be disconnected during repairs. Inside, it is possible to move from one front cabin to another. The locomotive uses older solutions for electrical systems, but proven and reliable. The body is modeled after the Series 363 locomotive, which was developed at the same time. Each box is supported on two two-axle trolleys. Each axle has its own drive motor. This arrangement allows for efficient overcoming of difficult railway routes. Electricity is collected by means of four semi-pantographs located on the roofs. As part of the modernization, the locomotives received the MIREL electronic control system (developed directly at RD Spišská Nová Ves). Air-conditioning was also installed on some locomotives.
Written by Karol Placha Hetman