PM to flag off India's first hydrogen train: Why the technology is so challenging, Pg11

Key Highlights:

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off India's first hydrogen-powered trainon July 17 in Jind, Haryana.
• The train will operate on the Jind-Sonipat railway section, covering 89 km.
• It is one of the world's longest (10 coaches) and most powerful (2400 kilowatt) hydrogen trainsets.
• The train utilizes hydrogen fuel cells and lithium ferro phosphate batteries for propulsion, emitting only water vapor.
• This initiative marks a significant step for Indian Railways towards green technology and aligns with India's National Green Hydrogen Mission.

Hydrogen Train.png

Detailed Insights:

• The train comprises two driving power cars and eight passenger cars, with a seating capacity of 682 and a total capacity of approximately 2600 passengers.
• Each driving power car generates 1200 kW, combining to a total of 2400 kW (3200 hp), comparable to conventional electric or diesel multiple units.
• The system is designed for optimal energy use, with surplus electricity from the fuel cell charging the battery during low power demand.
• Hydrogen is stored onboard at high pressure (440 kg), and a 2000-kg capacity fueling facility with a chiller plant is established at Jind for dispensing at -15°C.
• The fuel cells are imported from the Canadian company Ballard, while the train was developed by Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai, with system integration by Medha Servo Drives.
• The project is part of Indian Railways' broader Hydrogen for Heritage initiative, aiming to deploy 35 hydrogen trains on heritage and hill routes.
• India joins a select group of countries, including Germany, Japan, China, and the US, that operate hydrogen-powered trains.
• The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) has granted the necessary license for hydrogen storage and dispensing at the Jind facility.

Scientific/Technical Concepts Involved:

• Hydrogen Fuel Cell: An electrochemical device that converts the chemical energy of hydrogen and oxygen into electricity, producing water as the only byproduct.
• Lithium Ferro Phosphate Battery: A type of rechargeable battery known for its high power output, long cycle life, and enhanced safety compared to other lithium-ion chemistries.
• Green Hydrogen: Hydrogen produced through electrolysis of water using renewable energy sources, resulting in minimal to zero greenhouse gas emissions.