3-APE, IMPCO Technologies present new APU

From the team that brought the “world’s first commercially available locomotive auxiliary power unit (APU)—and supplied tens of thousands of APUs to the transportation industry—3-APE and IMPCO Technologies presented its newest innovation, The Banana, at Railway Interchange 2015.

Weighing a dry weight of approximately 690 pounds, The Banana features a CAT/Perkins diesel engine that is governed at 2,500 RPM. The engine drives a 150 A, 72 VDC (11 kW) generator that heats the locomotive coolant and lube oil, charges the batteries, and can be used to power cab heaters, lights and air conditioners, ensuring comfort to the crew.

“The Banana takes green technology and ripens it to perfection, incorporating innovative new design and automation,” 3-APE says.

The Banana includes an advanced control system complete with adjustable on/off locomotive water temperature and battery set points and diagnostics with freeze frame data and real time data monitoring.

“You’ll reduce most excess idling, save money on fuel and engine wear, meet EPA emissions regulations and local noise ordinances, and keep your crew comfortable—it’s a win-win for everyone,” the companies say.

Also premiering at Railway Interchange 2015 is 3-APE’s locomotive cab split-system air conditioner, The Orange. The Orange is the only direct 72 VDC-driven locomotive cab air conditioning unit that doesn’t require an inverter, 3-APE says.

Running directly off the locomotive’s batteries and using VRF (variable refrigerant flow) technology, The Orange will save up to 30% in energy consumption while reducing power surges in the 72 VDC system. And its compact split-system components can be custom configured to fit any cab without looking like a retrofit.

The complete Orange system includes:

• Two evaporators

• Compressor with brushless motor

• Condenser