Overview: Specialist DC traction power design supporting commissioning of next generation rolling stock.
Services Delivered
• DC third and fourth rail electrification design
• Negative return system design
• Earthing and bonding design
• Integration with civil access routes and guardboarding
• Design of bespoke switching arrangements
Phase Design & Engineering were commissioned by the Client to deliver the electrical design for a new DC conductor rail system within the sidings of a major UK train manufacturing facility in East Yorkshire. The infrastructure forms part of a programme supporting the assembly and commissioning of new rolling stock destined for the London Underground network.
The facility includes dedicated sidings used for testing newly constructed trains. One of the testing roads required electrification using a 750V DC third and fourth rail system to replicate operational traction power conditions during commissioning.
Phase Design & Engineering delivered a full electrification design including conductor rail arrangements, negative return systems, earthing and bonding and electrical safety interfaces. The works also required close coordination with the civil design team to ensure safe walking routes, compliant clearances and appropriate guardboarding around live conductor rails.
Key Challenges
- Integration of Multiple Traction System Types: The testing facility required compatibility with both London Underground four rail systems and Network Rail rolling stock. The electrical design therefore required careful consideration of return current paths, transition zones and electrical safety arrangements.
- Custom Negative Return Switching: A bespoke switching arrangement was required to allow the negative return circuit to be configured depending on the rolling stock being tested. This involved the integration of track disconnector switches enabling the return path to be switched between four rail and running rail systems.
Project Outcome
The project delivered a flexible and safe test track electrification system capable of supporting multiple traction power configurations. The bespoke switching arrangement provides a practical solution that enables testing of both London Underground and Network Rail rolling stock. Feedback from the wider project team highlighted the depth of DC traction expertise provided by Phase Design & Engineering and the pragmatic engineering approach adopted during delivery.