What is the Pantograph?

• A. A device located on top of electric equipment which collects Electric power from the contact wire by means of a collector head assembly
• B. A ground device
• C. A sensing device
• D. A safety switch

Answer: (A)

The pantograph is the device mounted on the roof of electric traction equipment that collects power from the overhead contact wire using a collector head assembly. It maintains continuous contact with the wire as the train moves, with a spring-loaded carbon or graphite shoe that slides along the wire to transfer electrical power to the traction equipment. It’s the power collection mechanism for overhead line systems. It isn’t a ground device (which provides the return path through the rails), nor a sensing device, nor a safety switch.