For those of you that are "challenged" backing up

Wow. I had no idea voltage was that complicated.

Wes Tausend wrote:
if we knew both the amps and rpm, and there was no slippage, we could theoretically calculate the wattage and convert it back and forth to HP, ftlbs of torque, voltage etc:
1 hp(I) = 745.699872 W {P(hp) = P(W) / 745.699872}

At 4,000 HP, with efficiency of everything at 100%, 4000hp x 746w = 3,000,000 watts/1500a =2,000 volts. Highly theoretical, of course.

I can't imagine the size of cable, or buss bar, that carries that kind of power...let alone the diesel engine size and the generator. I'm so fascinated by big power I hope someone will give me a tour of a modern locomotive.. I've asked, but not yet.