Abstract: The paper presents the possibilities of replacing currently operated diesel locomotives with modernized diesel locomotives or other diesel rail vehicles (e.g., diesel multiple units). This analysis was conducted taking into account: emission characteristics of locomotives operating in passenger and freight traffic, a comparison of typical locomotives with modernized locomotives in which the engine was replaced, an analysis of changes in ecological indicators of a locomotive operating in passenger traffic compared to traction rail vehicles, and a comparison of the emissions of shunting locomotives and special vehicles (machines for track and overhead line maintenance and construction, and road-rail vehicles).1. INTRODUCTION
Over the last few years, an increasing number of diesel traction vehicles (especially locomotives and diesel multiple units) have been imported into the country, whose internal combustion engines do not meet the requirements regarding the emission of toxic components [3, 4]. This is primarily caused by the liberalization of rail transport in the country and the emergence of about seventy carriers (so-called private operators), not grouped within the former and current structures of Polskie Koleje Państwowe S.A.
The assessment of environmental friendliness is in most cases based on a comparison of the current state of the internal combustion engine (its emissions) with the permissible emission values of harmful components. These values relate to specific research tests of engines or vehicles [1, 2]. In national conditions of rail vehicle operation, these requirements take on a slightly different shape, as possessing a wide spectrum
of railway rolling stock significantly changes the picture of the environmental friendliness of these vehicles. It is therefore necessary to undertake work to assess the emissions of internal combustion engines of traction vehicles under conditions of their actual operation. Thus, all actions aimed at assessing the actual degree of emissions of diesel rail vehicles and attempts to improve them are necessary and justified. (…)
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Source: Logistyka Magazine