BHEL electrics rolls out first 3-phase Ethernet-based AC Mainline Electric Multiple Unit (MEMU) Train

The first 3-phase Ethernet-based AC Mainline Electric Multiple Unit (MEMU) equipped with BHEL manufactured electrics has rolled out from RCF Kapurthala to Asansol MEMU shed, Eastern Railways, signaling a new era in the urban transportation segment. 

  • The 12 coach MEMU train is equipped with a 3-phase IGBT-based converter and inverter designed and developed by BHEL.
  • Significantly, the state-of-the-art Ethernet-based Train Control Management System which provides advanced control features, has been developed in-house in collaboration with a global OEM. 
  • With a focus on passenger comfort and safety, this AC MEMU train is designed for speeds of up to 110 kmph which will make travel faster and comfortable for passengers.
  • The MEMU train is equipped with the latest GPS-based public address and passenger information system in each coach to facilitate passengers with respect to railway stations enroute. 
  • A touchscreen-based user-friendly driver display unit is also installed for easy monitoring and control of the MEMU Train. 
  • An air-conditioned driving cab with an ergonomically designed driver desk provides a comfortable driving environment to the driver. 
  • Energy efficient LED lights have been provided with 50 percent emergency lights in each coach.
  • Notably, the MEMU also features a technologically advanced regenerative braking system which feeds braking energy back to the overhead supply line which can be utilised within the system by other trains in the same feeding zone.
  • BHEL has been at the forefront in the development of electric propulsion systems for rolling stock and locomotives for Indian railways. 
  • The company has set up an ecosystem for indigenisation of transportation technology thereby strengthening the vision of ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat.’ 
  • The company has also established collaborations with global OEMs to cater to new business opportunities like Metro, Monorail, Metrolite, Maglev and high speed rail. 
  • These alliances are expected to result in inorganic growth of BHEL in the transportation business.

About BHEL:

  • Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) is a Central Public Sector Enterprise, wherein Government of India is holding 63.06% of its equity. 
  • It is an integrated power plant equipment manufacturer and one of the largest engineering and manufacturing  companies of its kind in India having a turnover of about USD 5 billion. 
  • The company is engaged in the design, engineering, manufacture, construction, testing, commissioning and servicing of a wide range of products and services for the core sectors of the economy, viz. Power, Transmission, Industry, Transportation, Renewable Energy, Oil & Gas and Defence with over 180 product offerings to meet the needs of these sectors.  
  • Since its inception in 1964, BHEL has been the solid bedrock of evolution of India’s Heavy Electrical Equipment industry. 
  • BHEL has been designing and manufacturing rolling stock for rail and urban transportation. 
  • BHEL has also been manufacturing Motors, Power electronics and Controllers for various transportation applications at its various factories. 
  • In the transportation sector, BHEL is into the manufacture of complete electric and diesel electric locomotives and electrical assemblies/components including traction motors, traction transformers, power & auxiliary converters and controls, gear wheels etc. 

Source: BHEL-Press Release