Reduced voltage drop on HV lines allows for more shinkansen to share the same section of track

[mojo]

https://www.itmedia.co.jp/news/articles/2206/20/news156.html

 

JR Tokai has developed a system that reduces the voltage drop seen on the overhead high voltage lines that power shinkansen. If I am understanding this right they have improved the power factor, i.e. the phase difference between the line voltage and current. In doing so the voltage drop seen along the line is reduced, which not only makes the whole system more efficient but also allows them to run more trains on a given section.

 

I didn't realize that voltage drop was a limitation, I had heard it was down to maintaining safety distances, but it seems that isn't always the case.

 

On an unrelated note WaniKani seems to be working and I actually understood some of the text in the graphics.

[katoftw]

Or less transformers/suppies on a given line, meaning lower requirements for maintenance and repair budgets.