Photos copyright by Tom Parker
OUT OF THE PAST . . . INTO THE FUTURE
lllinois Central Railroad proudly introduces the latest in locomotive technology and their newest acquisition - the SD70 from Electro-Motive/General Motors Corp.
The SD70 diesel-electric locomotive incorporates the latest state-of-the-art in DC technology, including EMD's patented radial truck, EM2000 microprocessor, and an electronic fuel injection system. These features combine to improve the performance and reliability of the locomotive, while providing substantial cost savings from earlier technology.
The performance capabilities of the SD70 are largely due to Electro-Motive's high traction, three axle, self steering radial truck. In addition to an excellent ride quality, the radial truck has also displayed unprecedented levels of adhesion. The HTCR "Straightens" out the curves, taking them at a reduced angle in order to maximize tractive effort and ride stability.Curving performance reduces wheel wear by 20 percent on a per unit basis, and rail forces, both lateral and vertical, are less with the radial truck than with a conventional 2 axle truck.
The radial truck also contributes to the reduced maintenance costs of both locomotive and track. Wheel life can be improved by 20 percent or greater, and rail damage is estimated to be reduced by 50 percent with the radial truck. There is inherent cost savings in the work output of the SD70, because three SD70 locomotives can replace 4 SD40's.
The SD70 also offers substantial cost savings from improved fuel economy, greater parts reliability, and new money saving technology. The 4000 THP engine equipped with EMDEC, an electronic unit injection system, replaces the need for an electronic governor, fuel injection layshaft and associated hardware. EMOEC senses engine speed and controls that speed via a fuel management microprocessor. Injector timing is in turn, adjusted precisely for the selected throttle positions. This application improves fuel economy about 18 percent when compared to the present I.C. locomotives and also lowers exhaust emissions.
The reliability of the SD70 is greatly enhanced by reducing the number of parts in locomotive systems. The EMDEC system and AC technology, used both in fuel pump and turbo soakback pump motors as well as other auxiliary systems, give these components extended working lives. The elimination of pedestal liners, friction and chafing plates results in a 1,000,000 mile overhaul schedule which doubles the overhaul interval over a standard truck.
The EM2000 control computer enhances the total reliability of the locomotive by providing user friendly diagnostics and faster, easier trouble shooting. It also prepares an improved record of fault data. This 32-bit, 16mHz microprocessor offers more and better information up to 200 percent faster than its 60 series predecessor. It processes all commands coming from the operator or trainline, regulates adhesion, controls auxiliary loads, and operates locomotive diagnostics.
The outstanding features of the S070, such as those just mentioned, all contribute to the performance capabilities, cost efficiency, and reliability of this locomotive. The SD70 will take the Illinois Central well into the twenty-first century with safety, speed and technology.
From Illinois Central Handout, Family Day, October 7, 1995
# # #
* IC 1000 made a trip from Markham to Memphis on October 5th and returned on October 6th, before the official unveiling on October 7th. The morning of October 8th, it was lined up to head south again.