Bear custom power supplies for trackside applications

This low-voltage power supply will feature a custom design that can withstand large power surges, vibrations from moving trains, and environmental conditions. This is the third custom power supply that Bear has designed and made for the railroad industry, which requires robust and reliable performance to ensure passenger safety.

“Bear is not new to the railroad industry,” said Michael Allen, President at Z-AXIS. “For trackside applications, reliability is especially important – and Bear welcomes the opportunity to design and manufacture custom solutions.”

The trackside power supply that Bear will design must last for 25+ years under demanding conditions, including power surges. That’s because when a moving train slows down, its regenerative braking system produces a significant amount of power. Bear’s trackside power supply must withstand power surges up to 3kV for as long as 20 milliseconds. Most power supplies are built to withstand lower kilovoltages and for shorter durations measured in microseconds.

Bear’s 13.4KW product will have eight outputs, each for 48V and 35A. Lower voltages like this are safer for maintenance personnel who may accidentally come in contact with them. They also support the use of lower-voltage technologies for reduced energy usage. The power supply that Bear is designing must also withstand vibrations from moving trains. Taller components are especially susceptible to vibrations, which is why Bear is incorporating mechanical fasteners. Because they are outdoor units, these power supplies will also withstand a range of temperatures.