Microprocessor Engine and Propulsion Control (MEP)

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MEP™ is a state-of-the-art, retrofittable upgrade for legacy DC traction locomotives equipped with DC Generator or Alternator Excitation Control.
It replaces traditional, slower-responding analogue relay-based controls with high-speed microprocessor-based digital control.

The MEP™ solution incorporates 26 newly added sensors that measure critical parameters previously unavailable in legacy systems.
By combining high-speed digital control and precise real-time measurement, MEP™ delivers:

  1. Up to 20% higher haulage capability
  2. Up to 10% fuel savings
  3. Improved traction performance, equipment protection, and reliability

The result: smarter control, better efficiency, and a major leap forward in modernising existing locomotive fleets — already proven across 5,000+ locomotives worldwide.


What is MEP™

The Microprocessor Engine and Propulsion Control System (MEP™)  is a 32-bit, high-performance platform that replaces conventional electro-mechanical excitation systems. It delivers complete traction, propulsion, and engine control for DC-traction locomotives with intelligent diagnostics, advanced fault protection, and real-time monitoring.

Conventional systems depend on slow relay logic and manual adjustments that restrict performance.
MEP™ introduces adaptive digital control that reacts instantly to load, slip, and traction variations—delivering higher reliability and operational efficiency.


Why Upgrade to MEP™
  1. Higher Haulage: Boosts tractive effort by up to 20%.

  2. Fuel Efficiency: 6–10% reduction in fuel consumption.

  3. Integrated AESS: Built-in Auto Engine Start/Stop—no separate unit required.
  4. Better Adhesion: Up to 45% improvement with intelligent slip detection and automatic sanding.

  5. Extended Equipment Life: Protects alternators, traction motors, and auxiliaries from overloads.

  6. Reduced Maintenance: Logs 250+ fault types with modular, plug-in assemblies for quick service.

 


How the MEP™  Works

At the heart of MEP™ is a digital control unit that continuously monitors locomotive performance through a network of sensors.

  1. Sense: Collects data from traction motors, alternators, temperature, and pressure sensors.

  2. Decide: Processes these inputs using real-time control algorithms to maintain optimal excitation and traction.

  3. Act: Adjusts power delivery, manages braking transitions, and safeguards critical components.

This closed-loop control ensures precise traction management, faster slip recovery, and smooth transitions across varying loads.


System Architecture

The MEP™ package includes everything needed for full locomotive integration:

  1. Main Control Unit: Modular plug-in cards for easy maintenance and quick replacement.

  2. Driver Display (TFT/VFD): Displays traction, engine, and diagnostic data in real time.

  3. Sensor Suite: Monitors current, voltage, temperature, and traction motor speed.

  4. Remote Monitoring (LocoNet™): Enables cloud-based fleet analytics, GPS tracking, and remote diagnostics


Key Advantages
  1. Real-time digital excitation and propulsion control

  2. Intelligent traction motor isolation—keeps locomotive operational even with up to five defective motors

  3. Automatic wheel-diameter calibration and locked-axle detection

  4. Extended battery and blower life through smart load management

  5. Predictive maintenance via continuous monitoring and fault logging


Specifications
Parameter Details
Supply Voltage 74 VDC nominal (20–130 VDC) with full electrical protection.
Mode Constant HP operation with inbuilt load control.
Slip Detection Through traction motor RPM sensors.
Fault Diagnostics Real-time fault detection, logging, and diagnostic alerts. Monitoring of over 250 types of faults.
Display TFT touch or VFD.
Communication USB (configuration/data), CAN, RS-485.
Diagnostics Fault logging with timestamps; self-test and load-box testing.
Traction Alternator Control PWM-based digital excitation with full galvanic isolation and fault protection.


Global Deployments

With over 5,000 installations worldwide, MEP™ powers locomotive fleets across India, the USA, Africa, and Southeast Asia — delivering reliability and performance on models such as EMD GT46-MAC, GE U20C, ALCO YDM4, GE Class 88, and AD3400