Traction Rolling Stock - Indian Railways Institute of Electrical ...

to eliminate the possibility of fires due to short circuits/overloads etc. Always ensure that the
proper sizes and types fuses are used for replacement. Check calibration of MCBs and fuses of
only approved suppliers as laid down by RDSO.
9.2.5 Ensure that all the protective relays are in good working order and are properly
calibrated.
9.2.6 A loose connection is a potential source of fire. Proper tightness of all the connections
is, therefore, to be ensured and this point is to be given particular attention during inspections.
Locos commissioned after POH or new locos after commissioning should be thoroughly checked
up for loose connection, as during the first few days, loose connections will show up. Ensure that
the connections secured with a nut and bolts are provided with a set of plain and spring washers.
9.2.7 Insulation failures can result from surface flash over due to presence of dirt and dust. It
is, therefore, essential that proper cleaning of terminal connections, bus bars, insulations and
equipment is done during schedules as laid down to remove oil and dust.
9.2.8 Fires in control equipment cubicles are a problem and usually lead to considerable
damage. Segregation of phases in TK panel, provision of insulating separators between the
phases, use of Epoxy or Nylon cleats should be done.
9.2.9 Batteries constitute some fire or explosion risk when they are being given a heavy
charge. Heavy charging can be higher due to malfunction of the charging equipment or
carelessness when charging from the shop floor rectifier. It is therefore important to check that the
ventilation provided in the battery box is not choked.
9.2.10 Use only elastomeric cable as per RDSO specification No.E-14/01 Part I and II
revision1of 1992 should be used. Cleats used should not have sharp corners. Power, auxiliary and
control cables should be separately laid down to prevent the chances of short circuit of cables of
different voltage grade.
9.2.11 In order to monitor healthy condition of insulation of wiring and equipment, insulation
resistance should be measured periodically in sheds and during POH in shops, and records kept.
9.2.12 In the event of fire it is essential that the main circuit breaker is tripped and the battery
fuses of locomotives and EMUs are immediately removed to eliminate the continued feeding of the
fault by the battery.
9.3 TECHNICAL INVESTIGATION INTO FIRES
Every case of fire minor or major, irrespective of the location, whether in power, auxiliary
or control circuits, should be investigated very carefully, every though an inquiry in accordance
with the Accident Rules may not be called for. The cause as established by the investigation
should be analyzed by the Sr.DEE/DEE personally to identify areas requiring further investigation
and to tighten up preventive measures. A report on each case of fire should also be furnished to
CEE. The general guidelines to check up the items in locomotive in the event of fire, is given
below:
9.3.1 Items to be cheeked up after the fire in a Locomotive:
Position of master controller SMGR drum and tap position of tap changer.
Condition of DJ, whether locked or open
Whether relays particularly QLM, QRSI, QOP, QOA are in tripped condition or normal.