CONTACT WIRE Meaning and
Definition
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Contact wire refers to a critical component of an overhead electrification system used in public transportation systems, such as electric railways and trams. It is a suspended wire that serves as the main conductor for supplying electrical power to the vehicles. This wire is typically made of copper or copper alloy and is supported by a series of sturdy and insulated supports or structures, often called catenary systems or catenary wires.
The contact wire is installed above the track, running parallel to it, and provides the necessary electrical connection between the power source and the moving vehicles. The wire is in constant contact with a pantograph, a device mounted on the roof of the vehicle that collects electrical power from the wire through sliding contact, often in the form of a carbon or metal strip.
The primary purpose of the contact wire is to transmit electrical power to the vehicles, enabling them to operate using electric motors. Through this system, the vehicles draw the necessary current from the wire, allowing for a continuous supply of electricity and propelling the train or tram. The contact wire enables sustainable and efficient public transportation by eliminating the need for internal combustion engines and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
This technology has played a crucial role in modernizing and electrifying transportation systems worldwide, providing a clean and energy-efficient alternative to traditional propulsion systems. The contact wire is a fundamental element of these electrified transport networks, enabling the reliable and safe operation of electric vehicles while contributing to reduced environmental impact.
Common Misspellings for CONTACT WIRE
- contact wite
- contact sire
- xontact wire
- vontact wire
- fontact wire
- dontact wire
- cintact wire
- ckntact wire
- clntact wire
- cpntact wire
- c0ntact wire
- c9ntact wire
- cobtact wire
- comtact wire
- cojtact wire
- cohtact wire
- conract wire
- confact wire
- congact wire
- conyact wire
Etymology of CONTACT WIRE
The word "contact wire" is composed of two parts: "contact" and "wire".
The term "wire" originated from the Old English word "wir" which meant a metal thread or rod. It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "wiraz" meaning a twist or turn.
The word "contact" was derived from the Latin term "contactus", which meant "touch" or "meeting". It stems from the verb "contingere", which means "to touch" or "come into contact with".
So, when these two words are combined, "contact wire" refers to a wire which makes physical contact or connection with another object or surface. It is commonly used in the context of electric railways or tramways where the wire provides electrical energy to the vehicles through physical contact.
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