In 2006, JR East developed E233-0 series electric multiple unit (EMU) trains
in order to replace superannuated 201 series EMU used on the Chuo Line
rapid services. E233-0 series differ from E231series in having 2 more motored
cars and having a backup current collector.
The vehicle design incorporates light stainless steel construction and wide bodies such as E231 series. The floor level was reduced to 1130mm compared to 1165mm on E231 series to reduce the difference in level between the platform and the floor level. 4 doors are located at either side of the body. Door operating equipments are driven by the ball screw. Passengers can open or close doors manually by pushing buttons located at the door side. E233 series are equipped with bolster-less air spring bogies designed based on those of E531 series trains. Journal box supporting system is changed into the axle arm type. Some end cars are equipped with the automatic jumper coupler in order to couple/uncouple formations easily. Destination indicator panels by LED and loudspeakers, which a train conductor uses in order to guide passengers waiting at a station, are fitted on each side of the body.
Traction motors are silent AC 3-phase asynchronous motors rate at 140kW
compared to 95kW on E231 series. Increased number of motored cars gives
a maximum service speed of 120km/h and higher acceleration performance
of 3.0km/h/s. Traction systems, which consist of the converter and 2-level
AVAF inverter, drive 8 traction motors of MohaE233 and MohaE232. In emergency,
traction systems for either motored car can be cut off. E233 series feature
the electric commanding brake with regenerative brake. Commands of service
braking are carried by TIMS. Braking on formation basis by TIMS realizes
regeneration rate improvement.
Passenger accommodation is cantilever type longitudinal bench seating.
Drop windows, which can open and close, adopt heat ray absorption windowpanes
so blinds are discontinued.
E233-0 series are now used on the rapid services of the Chuo line and the local services of the Oume and Itsukamachi lines. |
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