Which component is mounted on the roof of a train to collect electrical power from overhead lines?

Which component is mounted on the roof of a train to collect electrical power from overhead lines?

• A. Overhead catenary.
• B. Traction power substation.
• C. Pantograph.
• D. Track circuit.

Answer: (C)

A pantograph is the interface that collects electrical power from overhead lines. It sits on the roof of the train and, with a spring-loaded arm and a carbon contact, stays in constant contact with the live overhead wire as the train moves. This contact allows electricity to flow from the overhead line down into the train’s traction and auxiliary systems. The overhead catenary is the suspended wire system itself, not something mounted on the train; the traction power substation is a fixed facility that converts and feeds power to the line; and the track circuit is part of the signaling system, not used for power collection.

A pantograph is the interface that collects electrical power from overhead lines. It sits on the roof of the train and, with a spring-loaded arm and a carbon contact, stays in constant contact with the live overhead wire as the train moves. This contact allows electricity to flow from the overhead line down into the train’s traction and auxiliary systems. The overhead catenary is the suspended wire system itself, not something mounted on the train; the traction power substation is a fixed facility that converts and feeds power to the line; and the track circuit is part of the signaling system, not used for power collection.