FS Class E.550

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The FS Class E.550 was a class of three-phase electric locomotive used in Italy, introduced in the 20th century, which remained in service until 1965. In the wake of the success met by three-phase electric locomotives on the Valtellina line, in the early 20th century the newly formed state-owned Ferrovie dello Stato, led by Riccardo Bianchi, decided to electrify the important mountain line of the Giovi Pass as well, which connected the port of Genoa to the industrial cities of northern Italy. The decision was taken because the line was close to full saturation despite the use of the powerful 470 class steam locomotives. Electrification of the line at 3,400V, 15.8 Hz was completed in 1916. The designer of the electric part was Hungarian engineer Kálmán Kandó. The whole project, initially developed by the FS central design studio, was later completed by the Società Italiana Westinghouse of Vado Ligure. The first E.550 prototype proved capable of hauling trains of up to 400 t (390 long tons; 440 short tons) at 50 km/h (31 mph) on the steep hill stretches of the Giovi railroad. In comparison, a pair of Class 470 steam locomotives were only capable of 310 t or 310 long tons or 340 short tons at half that speed. The use of electric traction solved the problem of smoke dissipation in the tunnels as well. A total of 186 E.550s were built between 1908 and 1921, in four series.