The pantograph is mounted on the roof of the electric locomotive. By maintaining constant contact with the overhead line, it supplies power to the locomotive's motors.

Problems with torn-down overhead lines, resulting in train delays, often occur due to a worn contact strip.

The pantograph is spring-loaded and equipped with a contact strip that drags against the overhead line. The spring tension is usually regulated by compressed air.

The contact strip is made of graphite, which, besides being a good conductor, is also gentle on the overhead line. It's the graphite that wears down and not the copper wire.