This book conveys mechanical fundamentals of electric railway propulsion, which includes rail-bound guidance, transmission of traction effort from wheel to rail under the influence of non-constant levels of adhesion and the transmission of motor torque to a spring-mounted and thus sliding drive set.

Switched reluctance motors have steadily increased in commercial importance since their introduction in the early 1980's, while their technology - especially of their electronic control - has made great progress. Their unique characteristics introduce a delicate balance, in which the copper and iron are diminished in quantity, complexity and cost, in favour of a greater reliance on sophistication in the controller. Thus mastery of the control is the key challenge in the application of these machines. This book is intended for engineer's in industry and in the large research community in electrical machines and drives. It introduces the techniques for controlling switched reluctance machines, starting from first principles and building up to the most advanced forms of sensorless control. It covers the recent advances in electronic control and includes aspects of motion control, automation, acoustic noise reduction and energy efficiency. - Covers the recent changes in control technology - Includes up-to-date equipment and methods - Contains applications and case studies