Pune: The Pune Metro Line 3 project, colloquially known as ‘Puneri Metro,’ is making remarkable strides in its development, linking the bustling IT hub of Hinjewadi with the central business district of Shivajinagar. Beyond just providing seamless transportation, this 23.3 km metro route aims to align with environmental sustainability by incorporating the cutting-edge ‘regenerative braking system.’
Distinguished by its ability to harness and optimize kinetic energy generated during braking maneuvers, the ‘Regenerative Braking System’ is poised to redefine energy efficiency for the Puneri Metro. With every brake application, kinetic energy is captured and then converted into usable electricity. This harvested electricity will subsequently power the metro, creating a self-sustaining energy cycle that exemplifies a commitment to sustainability.
Pune Metro Line 3, linking Hinjewadi and Shivajinagar, is being undertaken by the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) through a Public Private Partnership (PPP) model. The implementation has been facilitated by Pune IT City Metro Rail Limited, a special purpose vehicle (SPV) company established by the Tata Group.
Alok Kapoor, CEO of Pune IT City Metro Rail Limited, emphasized, “Pune Metro Line 3 is dedicated to enhancing the city’s environmental profile while ensuring a comfortable journey for passengers. The Hinjewadi-Shivajinagar Metro route is actively exploring various initiatives under the Clean Development Mechanism, with a strong focus on minimizing potential carbon emissions from metro operations. At the core of these endeavors lies the pioneering ‘Regenerative Braking Technology’ (RBT), facilitating energy regeneration.”
Understanding the Regenerative Braking System:
Regenerative braking is an ingenious energy recovery mechanism that converts kinetic energy into a form that can be used instantly or stored for future use. When a metro train applies brakes, kinetic energy is harnessed, and the current in the motors is reversed, functioning as a generator. This process not only slows the train down but also generates electricity that can be directed to the metro train’s batteries. Referred to as an energy-saving procedure, the regenerated electrical energy can be shared among other accelerating trains on the same track.
Operation of the Puneri Metro Braking System:
Each bogie of the Pune Metro Line 3, covering the Hinjewadi-Shivajinagar route, will feature both electric and electro-pneumatic braking systems. The train’s motors will function as both brakes and power generators. While electric braking will be used during typical speeds, the electro-pneumatic braking system will engage when the train’s speed drops to 10 km/h or lower. Every bogie will house two independent electro-pneumatic circuits: a service circuit and an auxiliary circuit. An electro-pneumatic module (EPM) located beneath the metro carriage will concurrently manage these systems. The EPM will oversee pneumatic brake activation components, including pressure generation, regulation, and electric brake control. These elements will be supervised through dedicated brake control units, ensuring efficient and monitored operation.
With its forward-thinking approach, the Puneri Metro Line 3 sets a promising precedent for eco-conscious transportation solutions and paves the way for a cleaner and more sustainable urban future.
