On the substitution of the electric motor for the steam locomotive

The purpose of this paper is fourfold: 1, to record certain facts relative to heavy electric traction which have been established by experience; 2, to present calculations of relative costs of steam and electric traction in railway service based upon these facts; 3, to point out the transcendent importance of standardizing electric railway traction equipment as rapidly as may be consistent with progress; and 4, to raise the question whether a frequency of 25 cycles per second or 15 cycles per second should be adopted in railway operation by alternating-current motors.