Electrical specifications, power adequacy, and the premature end of US rail freight electrification

This paper contends that the long-term success of freight rail electrification in the United States was largely curtailed by the initial choices of electrification specifications and power adequacy made by the railroads. The few histories of this early 20th century foray into fully electric traction for freight have overlooked the role of technology as a limiting factor for the longevity of these installations. This research finds that the choice of current, voltage, and other technical characteristics affected the performance – and hence the useful life – of early 20th century electrifications. This paper elucidates these connections to present a more complete story of rail freight electrification in the United States. This enhanced understanding remains relevant to railroads today, which like all forms of transportation, are navigating novel technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.