Atkins digitally-enabled signalling system goes live onto the railway

Paul Hutton June 25, 2019 3 min read 0

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ITS (UK) Executive Member Atkins and Network Rail have collaborated to deliver new computer-based interlocking technology between Fulwell and Strawberry Hill in London, marking a significant milestone in the safety, reliability and cost effectiveness of signalling projects in the UK, as well as preparing it for the digital-age.

Over the weekend (22-23 June), Atkins and Network Rail deployed a full train control, signalling and power system including the ElectroLogIXS interlocking onto the railway, which is the first digitally-enabled interlocking system of its kind.

The commissioning took place on the line between Shepperton and Strawberry Hill, part of the Feltham signal control area in south west London. Shepperton is the first stage of the Feltham Area Re-signalling project. With the area last re-signalled in 1974, the project will renew all signalling assets in stages over several years, prior to the migration to Basingstoke Rail Operations Centre (ROC).

This is the first deployment of the ElectroLogIXS system into passenger use and follows the successful introduction of the system at Old Oak Common depot in 2018, which is now performing well as part of the validated signalling system for the vital Crossrail depot.

Huw Edwards, Network Rail’s Programme Director for signalling, said: “This is a true example of first-rate collaboration between Atkins, Network Rail and the wider supply chain, all driven and motivated to produce an improved train service for our passengers. There is no doubt that this sets the Gold standard for future collaboration both in the further roll-out of the ElectroLogIXS product, as well as the future deployment of new signalling technology.”

Scott Kelley, Atkins’ Strategic Rail Market Director, said: “This commissioning is a step change for the domestic signalling market in UK Rail. The project was unique in that it involved new technologies, software systems and working methods being specifically developed, tested and coming together at the same time. Alongside our collaboration with Network Rail, this success demonstrates our commitment to designing a safe, efficient, reliable and futureproof railway, that benefits passengers and the industry as a whole.” 

The signalling system, with the ElectroLogIXS interlocking at its core, will deploy Newgate barrier machines; an auto re-configurable power supply; an Integrated Electronic Centre Control (IECC) Scalable control system; a Telecoms multi service network to support ElectroLogIXS; Frauscher axle counters; Camlin, remote condition monitoring and CCTV transmission; Use of centralised Frauscher axle counter system for train detection; 650Vac lineside signalling power distribution with Camlin auto-reconfiguration; and a VDU-based signalling control system workstation within Feltham Signal Box. The goal is to improve the passenger experience, provide better live passenger information and faster service recovery.