China Railways SS1

SS1
Type and origin
Power type Electric
Builder Zhuzhou Electric Locomotive Works
Model 6Y1 / SS1
Build date 1968—1988
Total produced 7 (6Y1)
819 (SS1)
Specifications
UIC classification Co'Co'
Gauge 1,435 mm (4 ft 8 12 in)
Electric system(s) 25 kV 50 Hz AC Catenary
Current collection
method
Pantograph
Transmission AC—DC

The SS1 is a type of AC-powered electric locomotive used on China Railways. This locomotive was the first Chinese electric main line locomotive, made by the Zhuzhou Electric Locomotive Works with the assistance of the Soviet Union and following the design of the Soviet-H60 electric locomotive. The power supply was industrial-frequency single-phase AC, and the axle arrangement Co-Co.

Equipment

The first prototype locomotive, 6Y1-001, which used ignitron-controlled rectifier, was produced in 1958. Further 6 prototypes (002 to 007) were produced between 1962 and 1966. Silicon semiconductor-controlled rectifier was used from No. 004 onwards.

Modifications

In reference to technology of French-made 6Y2 locomotive, Zhuzhou Plant made major modification on design of the 6Y1 locomotive, improving the reliability of rectifier, traction motor and rheostatic braking system. The eighth locomotive, No. 008, was produced in 1968. The series also renamed from 6Y1 to SS1 (SS means Shaoshan, birthplace of leader Mao Zedong).

Dimensions

The locomotive is 19.4 meters (63 ft 8 in) long, with a maximum speed of 80 km/h (50 mph), and continuous power output of 3,780 kilowatts (5,070 hp).

Preservation

The model went out of production in 1988 with a total of 826 manufactured; 7 of 6Y1 and 819 of SS-1. Number SS1008 is preserved at China Railway Museum.

References

(Chinese)*运行中的韶山1型电力机车 1603号 (Chinese)* 我国自行研制的首台韶山1型国产电力机车“退役” (新华网)