16.10.17
Computerised signalling system set to increase LU capacity by a third
A new computerised signalling system that will allow trains to run closer together and increase capacity by a third has been successfully tested on the London Underground.
The SelTrac CBTC system, designed by Thales, is expected to improve the frequency of the sub-surface network in order to shorten waiting times and boost capacity.
Initial tests took place between Hammersmith and Latimer Road, with three newly enabled S stock trains where engineers managed the distances between trains.
Full systems are expected to be in place by 2022 but the Circle and Hammersmith and City Lines should benefit from the changes as soon as next year.
The project has been planned since 2011, but suffered a set-back when LU gave the contract to Bombardier before deciding ‘mutually’ to re-let the project in 2013.
Mark Wild, managing director of LU, commented: “This is a fantastic step forward in the vital programme to modernise nearly half of the tube network.
“The new signalling system will provide our customers with more frequent trains and quicker journeys, as well as improving reliability and improving customer information.
“We are making improvements for our customers all over the network and this programme represents a hugely significant part of that work.”
TfL expects the new system to deliver a 33% capacity increase across the four lines and also allow Night Tubes to be installed on below ground services when work is complete.
Thales transport vice-president, Shaun Jones, called the initial testing a “significant milestone” in upgrading London’s transport system.
“We have demonstrated that our state-of-the-art radio communications technology will deliver better, more reliable journeys on 40% of the network, creating a world-class transport system for our capital city,” he added.
Installation work should continue throughout the year, with the next weekend of testing taking place in December.
Work in central London is expected to be completed by 2020, but complete links across all the systems, which will allow the benefits to be fully realised, are thought to be finished in 2023.
Top image: traveler1116
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