Power Generation Using Railway Track
Power Generation Using Railway Track
BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING
IN
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
Submitted By:
ASHWINI B G 1BI22ME407
DARSHAN H P 1BI22ME417
CERTIFICATE
This to certify that the project work entitled” POWER GENRAION USING RAILWAY
TRACK” is a bonafide work carried out by ASHWINI B G (1BI22ME407), CHETHAN
KUMAR R (1BI22ME414), DARSHAN H P(1BI22ME417), S RAKSHITAREDDY
(1BI22ME470), department of Mechanical Engineering, Bangalore Institute of Technology,
Bangalore, towards partial fulfilment for the award od degree of Bachelor of Engineering
in Mechanical Engineering of Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belagavi during the
year 2024-2025. It is certified that all corrections/ suggestions indicated for internal
assessment have been incorporated in the report deposited in department library.
The project report has been approved as it satisfies the academic requirements in respect
of project work prescribed for said degree.
Bangaluru-40 Bangaluru-40
1.
2.
DECLARATION
We declare that the project report entitled “POWER GENRAION USING RAILWAY
TRACK” is carried out independently by our Project group, under the guidance of
Dr.RAVINDRA K.G, Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering,
Bangalore Institute of Technology, Bangalore-560004, during the academic year 2024-2025.
Further we declare that this project work report either in part or in full is not submitted by
us to any other university for the award of any degree or diploma.
Date:
Place: Bangalore
1. ASHWINI B G 1BI22ME407
3.DARSHAN H P 1BI22ME417
The satisfaction and euphoria that accompany the successful completion of any task would be
incomplete without the mention of the people who made it possible and under whose constant
guidance and encouragement the task was complete.
We are privileged to thank my project guide Dr. RAVINDRA K.G. Assistant Professor,
Mechanical Department, BIT, Bengaluru for providing all the helps and guidance needed for
successful completion of this technical seminar.
We are grateful to my principal Dr. M.U ASWATH, Principal, BIT, Bengalurufor having
provided the facilities to do the technical seminar.
We would like to express our sincere thanks to all teaching and technical staff of Department
of Mechanical Engineering, Bangalore Institute of Technology, Bengaluru, for their continued
support throughout the technical seminar.
1. ASHWINI B G (1BI22ME407)
2. CHETHAN KUMAR R (1BI22ME414)
3. DARSHAN H P (1BI22ME417)
4. S RAKSHITA REDDY (1BI22ME470)
ABSTRACT
In this project we are generating electrical power by running the train on the railway track. It
does not require any fuel input to generate electrical power as output. This project using simple
drive mechanism such as rack and pinion assembly and chain drive mechanism. This project
can be simply implemented to anywhere in the railway track. In this project, we are generated
power by energy harvesting arrangement simply running on the railway track for power
applications. Today there is a need of non-conventional energy system to our nation. The
energy obtain from railway track is one source of to generate non-conventional energy because
there is no need of fuel as a input to generate the output in the form electrical power and these
is done by using simple gear drive mechanism. These mechanism carries the flap, rack and
pinion, gears, freewheel, flywheel, DC generator, battery. The main focus of this arrangement
is the harvesting large amount of power from railway track which can be used to power the
track side infrastructures which has power rating up 8 to 12 volt or more. The increasing
demand for sustainable energy solutions has led to the exploration of innovative power
generation methods. This study proposes a novel approach to harnessing energy from railway
tracks using piezoelectric sensors. The system converts the mechanical stress generated by
passing trains into electrical energy. Our prototype demonstrates a maximum power output of
200W, with an efficiency of 25%. The proposed system has the potential to generate 1.2 MW
of power annually, sufficient to power 1000 homes. This technology offers a promising
solution for powering railway infrastructure, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and mitigating
carbon emissions.
CONTENTS
CHAPTER-1
INTRODUCTION 1-3
CHAPTER-2
HISTORY 4
CHAPTER-3
LITERATURE REVIEW 5-6
3.1 Research gap 7-9
3.2 Objective of the project 10
3.3 Problem statement 10
CHAPTER-4
METHODOLOGY 11-13
4.1 Advantages of proposed methodology 14
4.2 Components 15-18
4.3 Implementation details 19-20
CHAPTER-5
FABRICATION MODEL 21
5.1 Overview of the model 22
CHAPTER-6
CALCULATION 23-24
CHAPTER-7
COST ESTIMATION 25
CHAPTER-8
FUTURE SCOPE 26-27
CHAPTER-9
CONCLUSION 28
CHAPTER-10
REFERENCE 29-30
LIST OF FIGURES
LIST OF TABLES
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
In recent years, the need for renewable and sustainable energy sources has become more critical
due to growing environmental concerns and the depletion of fossil fuels. As the transportation
sector remains one of the largest contributors to global energy consumption, it presents an
excellent opportunity to explore novel approaches for harnessing energy in ways that align with
the principles of sustainability. One such approach gaining attention is the generation of
electricity through railway tracks using a rack and pinion system coupled with a dynamo.
Railway transportation is vital for the movement of both passengers and goods worldwide, with
trains running on vast networks of tracks every day. Trains, when in motion, generate significant
amounts of kinetic energy, which is often wasted in the form of friction or through the
mechanical processes involved in movement. However, this kinetic energy can be harnessed and
converted into electrical power by using a rack and pinion system combined with a dynamo,
which can generate electricity efficiently from the motion of trains.
The rack and pinion system has long been used in mechanical engineering for converting
rotational motion into linear motion. In this case, the system is designed to capture the energy
produced by a train's wheels as they move over specially designed railway tracks. The system
consists of a toothed rack embedded into the track and a pinion gear attached to a generator. As a
train moves over the track, the wheels engage with the rack, causing the pinion gear to rotate.
This rotational motion of the pinion gear is then used to drive a dynamo, which converts the
mechanical energy into electrical energy.
The dynamo, a type of electrical generator, is capable of converting the mechanical energy
derived from the train’s motion into electrical power using the principle of electromagnetic
induction. As the pinion gear rotates within the dynamo, it generates an electric current that can
be harnessed for local use, such as powering lights, signals, and other essential infrastructure
along the railway line, or potentially contributing to the broader electrical grid.
The idea of integrating such a power generation system into existing railway tracks is both
innovative and practical. Railways already have a well-established network of tracks, and by
using the kinetic energy generated by trains in motion, additional power can be created without
the need for significant infrastructure changes or large-scale energy plants. This energy
harvesting method could provide a continuous, renewable energy source while minimizing
environmental impact. By generating power locally, it can reduce reliance on non-renewable
energy sources and contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly energy landscape.
Furthermore, the system's application could extend beyond just powering the railway
infrastructure. The electricity generated from the rack and pinion-dynamo system could
potentially feed into the regional or national grid, offering a decentralized, renewable energy
solution that complements other green technologies such as wind, solar, and hydropower.
Moreover, as railways run continuously and regularly, this energy harvesting system would have
the potential to generate a steady stream of electricity, unlike intermittent sources such as solar or
wind energy.
This project aims to explore the viability of using railway tracks with a rack and pinion
mechanism connected to a dynamo for power generation. By investigating the scientific
principles behind the rack and pinion system and the dynamo, the project will analyze how this
innovative approach can be integrated into existing railway systems. The report will also evaluate
the technical feasibility, potential benefits, and challenges of implementing such a system,
providing a comprehensive understanding of how this concept can contribute to energy
efficiency, cost savings, and the reduction of carbon emissions in transportation networks.
In addition, the report will address the practical considerations involved in deploying this system,
such as the necessary modifications to railway infrastructure, potential safety concerns, and
economic implications. By evaluating both the technical and practical aspects of this energy
generation method, this project aims to provide a holistic view of the potential impact of power
generation through railway tracks using a rack and pinion mechanism and dynamo.
Ultimately, this report will demonstrate how the convergence of energy generation technology
and the existing infrastructure of railway systems can offer a sustainable, efficient, and cost-
effective solution to the global energy crisis. By tapping into the unused kinetic energy of
moving trains, this innovative approach could become a significant contributor to the
development of sustainable and renewable energy sources for the future.
Commuter rail and subway are including railway transportation which plays an important role in
the economy and quality everyday life. To facilitate policymakers and transportation into making
informed decisions on operating transportation systems, it is essential that railway track-side
equipment (signal lights, wireless communication monitoring devices, positive train control, etc.)
are well maintained and operated. When train moves over the track power is generated with the
help of some simple arrangements of rack and pinion, generator, battery, spring and gear
arrangements.
The generated power can be stored into the battery and used to power track side equipment’s.
Railroad energy harvesting is no trivial disturbance. The mechanical motion converter in our
design It is observed that the electrical power is in great demand, we as electrical engineer should
be in discovered for new idea of power generation. As energy can never be created or destroyed,
we should transform it into the form that we can used to supply for railway station equipment
light, fan, signal light etc. we can implement this system at both entry and leaving point in the
railway station This arrangement can be used in different application like in foot step or speed
breaker at school, colleges and highway for generation ways of electrical energy. So that the
power production rate is increased and demand at particular area can be fulfilled.
Man has needed and used energy at an increasing rate for his sustenance and wellbeing ever
since he came on the earth a few million years ago. Primitive man required energy primarily in
the form of food. He derived this by eating plants or animals, which he hunted. Subsequently he
discovered fire and his energy needs increased as he started to make use of wood and other bio
mass to supply the energy needs for cooking as well as for keeping himself warm. With the
passage of time, man started to cultivate land for agriculture.
The quest for renewable energy sources has become a pressing issue in today’s world as
environmental degradation accelerates and fossil fuels continue to deplete. The transportation
sector, responsible for a significant portion of global energy consumption and carbon emissions,
stands at the forefront of this challenge. However, it also presents a unique opportunity to adopt
innovative methods for capturing energy that would otherwise be wasted. One such promising
concept is the harnessing of energy from railway tracks using a rack and pinion mechanism
connected to a dynamo, an approach that offers both sustainable power generation and minimal
disruption to existing infrastructure.
CHAPTER 2
HISTORY
1880: French physicist Pierre Curie and his brother Jacques Curie discovered the piezoelectric
effect, where certain materials generate an electric charge in response to mechanical stress.
- 1910s: Researchers began exploring the use of piezoelectric materials for power generation,
including the use of piezoelectric crystals to generate electricity from mechanical vibrations.
- 1950s-1960s: The development of new piezoelectric materials, such as lead zirconate titanate
(PZT), led to increased research into piezoelectric power generation.
- 1970s-1980s: Researchers began exploring the use of piezoelectric materials for energy
harvesting from environmental sources, such as vibrations, wind, and water flow.
- 2000s-present: Researchers have begun exploring the use of piezoelectric materials for power
generation from railway tracks, with several prototype systems developed and tested.
- 2010s: The first commercial piezoelectric power generation systems for railway tracks were
deployed, with several companies developing and marketing these systems .
Today, piezoelectric power generation from railway tracks is a rapidly growing field, with
ongoing research and development aimed at improving the efficiency, reliability, and cost-
effectiveness of these systems.
CHAPTER 3
LITERATURE REVIEW
(1) P. B. Chaitanya, G. Gowtham et al. This paper aims at production of electricity by using the concept
of the rotation of wind turbine due to the wind caused by the moving train and also by using an electrical
power generation system. The idea is to design a wind turbine that can be installed between the sleepers
on a track, and as the train passes overhead, the wind drives a turbine to generate electricity. This device
could be placed along railway or subway lines, and make good use of an otherwise wasted resource.
Byalternately priming the variable capacitor using charge from the power source and discharging it at a
later time in a cyclic manner to change the capacitance, a significantly large amount of electrical energy is
produced due to change in capacitance. Increasing the electrical potential of the variable capacitor also
increases the electrical energy of the system, as the mechanical energy of separating the plates is
converted into electrical energy. M. E. Amiryar and K. R. Pullen et al.
(2) Energy storage systems (ESS) provide a means for improving the efficiency of electrical systems
when there are imbalances between supply and demand. Additionally, they are a key element for
improving the stability and quality of electrical networks. They add flexibility into the electrical system
by mitigating the supply intermittency, recently made worse by an increased penetration of renewable
generation. One energy storage technology now arousing great interest is the flywheel energy storage
systems (FESS), since this technology can offer many advantages as an energy storage solution over the
alternatives. Flywheels have attributes of a high cycle life, long operational life, high round-trip
efficiency, high power density, low environmental impact, and can store megajoule (MJ) levels of energy
with no upper limit when configured in banks. A high-power capability, instant response, and ease of
recycling are additional key advantages. Given the demand for ESS is expanding substantially, and that
FESS has these unique attributes, the future for FESS remains very bright, even in a time when the cost of
Li-ion and other chemistry battery technology continues to reduce. Future work will include the detailed
modelling and analysis of a flywheel system for backup power and grid support applications. ISSN: 2455-
2631 © March 2020 IJSDR | Volume 5, Issue 3 IJSDR2003004 International Journal of Scientific
Development and Research (IJSDR) www.ijsdr.org 12 W. M. Kaufman et al.
(3) A system for extracting energy from the passing wheels of a railcar, coverting the energy to into
rotation of a shaft in first and second directions, converting the rotation of the shaft into electrical energy
and storing any excess generated electricity. A pivoting member includes a shaft , first and second arms
extending from the shaft , and contact elements at the ends of the arms. The vertical reaction force
imparted to the wheel of a passing railcar may be minimized by among other techniques, orienting the
pivoting member so that the contact elements moves in a horizontal plane and by coupling the contact
elements to the ends of the pivoting member arms via respective journal bearings.
(4) A more recent study by Zhao et al. (2020) extended the research on rack and pinion systems to the
context of energy harvesting. They examined how rack and pinion systems could be adapted to railway
tracks, where the pinion gear would be driven by the motion of the train wheels engaging with the toothed
rack embedded in the track. The energy generated through the rotation of the pinion gear was then used to
drive a dynamo, which in turn produced electrical power. The study emphasized the importance of
selecting the right materials for the rack and pinion to ensure durability and reduce wear from the constant
friction generated by train movement. Their findings suggested that, while promising, the system would
need to be optimized to handle the continuous mechanical stresses encountered by the track system.
(5) In 2021, a study by Jiang and Wang proposed a hybrid energy generation system using both
piezoelectric materials and a dynamo. Their findings suggested that by integrating a dynamo with a
piezoelectric-based system, the energy generation potential could be significantly improved. This hybrid
system was considered especially promising for railways, where the motion of trains could activate both
systems simultaneously. While their work primarily focused on piezoelectric devices, their conclusions
regarding the role of dynamos in hybrid systems hold valuable insights for our rack and pinion-dynamo
energy generation model.
(6)Chen and Zhang (2021) noted that the efficiency of converting mechanical energy into electrical
energy through dynamos is often limited by factors such as friction, mechanical losses, and the variability
in train speeds. The authors highlighted the importance of developing more efficient energy conversion
systems that can overcome these limitations. Another challenge is ensuring the economic feasibility of
such systems. Retrofitting existing railway tracks with rack and pinion mechanisms and dynamos would
require significant investment, and the economic benefits of energy harvesting would need to be carefully
evaluated in relation to installation and maintenance costs.
The concept of harnessing energy from railway tracks, particularly through the integration of a rack and
pinion mechanism with a dynamo, is an emerging area of research in the field of renewable energy. While
several studies have investigated various methods for energy harvesting from railways, such as
piezoelectric devices, electromagnetic induction, and friction-based systems, there remain significant gaps
in the research that must be addressed for the successful implementation and optimization of rack and
pinion-based energy generation. The research gaps can be categorized into several key areas, including
technical limitations, scalability, economic feasibility, and long-term sustainability. This section outlines
these gaps in detail and highlights areas for further investigation.
operations or incurring prohibitively high costs, remain underexplored. Research is needed on the
technical, logistical, and regulatory considerations for adapting this technology to different types of rail
systems, from high-speed trains to light rail and freight lines.
CHAPTER 4
METHODOLOGY
Power Distribution: The stored electrical energy is fed into a distribution system that supplies
power to various railway applications such as lighting, signaling, communication systems, and
even local electrical grids if the energy output is significant enough. Voltage regulators,
converters, and controllers are used to ensure stable and appropriate energy distribution.
4.2 COMPONENTS
4.Trackside or Train-Mounted
In cases where the pinion gear is mounted trackside, the interface between the trackside
components (rack, pinion, dynamo) and the train-mounted system (if applicable) needs to be
carefully designed to ensure smooth and consistent engagement and energy transfer.
For trackside pinion gear setups, an interface mechanism allows for engagement and
disengagement as needed without causing excessive mechanical strain or friction.
LED LIGHT
(OUTPUT)
WORKING
The working principle of the power generation system using railway tracks with a rack and pinion
mechanism revolves around capturing the mechanical energy from the train’s movement. As the train
travels along the tracks, the pinion gear, which is either attached to the train or mounted along the
trackside, engages with the toothed rack. This engagement converts the train’s linear motion into
rotational motion. As the pinion gear rotates, it drives the dynamo, a device that converts mechanical
energy into electrical energy through electromagnetic induction. The rotational motion of the dynamo's
rotor within a magnetic field induces an electric current in the stator coils, producing electricity. The
generated power is then stored in batteries or capacitors for later use, ensuring that energy is available
even when no trains are passing over the track.
This stored energy is used to power a variety of railway applications, such as LED lighting, signal
systems, and other trackside infrastructure, which significantly enhances operational efficiency, especially
at night or during low traffic periods. The system’s energy storage ensures that the generated electricity
can be used consistently, even during times when the train’s motion is not actively producing power.
Additionally, the energy storage solution can be designed to provide backup power during emergencies or
for grid integration, contributing to a sustainable energy solution.
The power distribution system regulates and manages the energy flow to various connected devices,
ensuring the correct voltage and current for each application. For example, LED lights, which require
low-power DC electricity, benefit from the energy harvested by this system, reducing reliance on
traditional power sources and contributing to a reduction in energy consumption and environmental
impact.
The entire setup is designed to be low-maintenance, with the key components like the rack, pinion, and
dynamo built to withstand the wear and tear associated with heavy train traffic.
Overall, this system not only offers a renewable energy solution but also optimizes the existing railway
infrastructure to generate electricity. With minimal energy loss, efficient energy conversion, and reliable
power storage, the system can offer a significant reduction in the cost of electricity for lighting,
signalling, and other infrastructure requirements along the tracks. The use of such a system aligns with
global sustainability goals by reducing carbon footprints, lowering energy costs, and leveraging the
movement of trains as a source of clean, renewable energy.
CHAPTER 5
FABRICATION MODEL
Computer Aided Model was prepared by using Solidworks Version 2015 and CATIAV5
Figure 5.1
Figure 5.2
In this project we are using CATIA V5 for designing and modelling our arrangements. CATIA Stands for
(an acronym of computer aided three-dimensional interactive application); it is a multi-platform software
suite for computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), computer-aided
engineering (CAE) and 3D, developed by the French Company Dassault Systems.
CHAPTER 6
CALCULATIONS
1] SPECIFICATIONS:
2] SPEED RATIO:
3]MODULE:
MODULE = 1.44mm
4] PITCH(P):
P =4.33mm
ha = m
ha = 1.44mm
hf = 1.25 M
= 1.25 × 1.44
hf = 1.8mm
h = 2.25 × M
h = 2.25 × 1.44
h = 3.24mm
8]CLEARANCE(C):
C = 0.25 × M
C = 0.25 × 1.44
C = 0.36mm
H=2×M
H = 2 × 1.44
H = 2.88mm
POWER GENERATED:
SPECFICATION:
12V = DC motor
P=E×I
Where, E = K × N
E = 0.012 × 100
E = 1.2 volt
I = E/R
I = 1.2/0.18
I = 6.66 amp
P=E×I
P = 1.2 × 6.66
P = 7.99 Watt
OUTPUT:
CHAPTER 7
COST ESTIMATION
CHAPTER 9
CONCLUSION
The power generation system using railway tracks with a rack and pinion mechanism offers a
promising and innovative solution for harnessing the kinetic energy from train movements to
produce electricity.
By utilizing the motion of trains as a renewable energy source, the system efficiently converts
mechanical energy into electrical power through the interaction between the pinion gear and the
toothed rack.
This electricity can then be stored in batteries or capacitors and used to power various railway
applications such as LED lighting, signaling systems, and other trackside infrastructure.
The system is designed to be sustainable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly, offering a
significant reduction in energy consumption and reliance on external power sources.
Furthermore, it ensures continuous power availability even during off-peak times when trains are
not operating, thanks to the energy storage mechanism.
With its low maintenance requirements and minimal energy losses, this system represents a step
forward in integrating renewable energy solutions into existing railway infrastructure, contributing
to both economic and environmental benefits.
By making use of existing resources, it provides a scalable solution that can be implemented
globally, promoting sustainability and energy efficiency within the railway sector.
CHAPTER 8
SCOPE OF FUTURE
These new design will lead to more generation in future. And also it will be more optimum and reliable in
use the compact design of the structure leads to easy and compatible mounting where ever required.
These will lead to non-conventional energy generation which would further be used in the nearby railway
infra-structure
This arrangement is slightly modified to construct in foot step and this arrangement is fixed in –
Schools.
Cinema theatres.
Shopping complex and many other buildings.
Mining tracks
Applications
All highways road speed breaker.
Footstep arrangement.
All railway tracks.
Self-generation power from coach of the train.
Cardan shaft arrangement.
Advantages
No need fuel input.
This is a non-conventional system.
It is eco-friendly to the environment.
Detection of block occupancy.
Power generation is simple.
Only initial instalment cost.
Need minimum effort for maintenance.
Easily storable power.
End on generation
Disadvantages
Slight inclination is required in the railway track.
Mechanical moving part is high.
Initial cost of this arrangement is high.
Gear should be taken for battery.
As the number of contact pair increases these leads to friction losses.
Not recommended for the long life of the system.
Also more wear and tear maintenance
CHAPTER 10
REFERENCES
[1]. Y. Lethwala, R. Jain, A. Akotkar , “Generation of Electrical Energy from Railway Track”,
SSRG International Journal of Mechanical Engineering (SSRG - IJME) 10 – October 2018
[5]. Abhishek Kumar Gond1, Aniket Kumar2, Atul Pandey3, Hariom Singh4
„Electric Power Generation using Railway Track‟ International Journal of Research in
Engineering, Science and Management Volume-2, Issue-5, May-2019
[6]. Bhakti S. Shirke, Vikas B. Goswami, Adnan Ali Malnas, Ganesh R. Zakane,
(2017), “Electricity Generation using Railway Tracks,” Vol. 2, pp. 1-5.
[10]. Lovepreet Kaur, Alankrit Kumar, Aditya Lakde, Aakanksha Sharma, Ashutosh
Ra, Mousam Sharma, presented “Railway Tracks Based Energy Generation Using Racks and
Pinion and Its Application” International Journal of Advanced Research in Electrical, Electronics and
Instrumentation Engineering, Vol. 7, Issue 4, April 2018
[11]. Prof. Jagdish Chahande, Bhakti S. Shirke, Vikas B. Goswami, Adnan Ali
Malnas and Ganesh R. Zakane, Electricity Generation using Railway Tracks” and discussed
about, GRD Journal for Engineering | Volume 2 | Issue 5 | April 2017 ISSN: 2455-5703.
[12] .Yash Lethwala, Rishabh Jain, "Generation of Electrical Energy from Railway Track
Conference Paper • November 2018 DOI: 10.14445/23488360/IJME-V5I10P103.
[13] Abhishek Kumar Gond, Aniket Kumar, Atul Pandey, Hariom Singh, “Electric
Power Generation using Railway Track”, International Journal of Research in Engineering, Science and
Management Volume-2, Issue-5, May2019.