27.09.09
Railway points heating – the modular system approach
Having now commissioned High Speed One of the Channel Tunnel Rail Link points heating project and, taking account of Network Rails’ aim of a modular system approach for new infrastructure projects wherever possible, GrayBar has gained unique experience with regard to the way they can manufacture their points heating system to obtain the most cost effective installation and reliability.
Their well known, successful, GrayBar self-regulating points heating system has been supplied for over 16 years, not only to the UK railway infrastructure (Network Rail) but also the light rail and tram networks.
They have always been great exponents of the ‘system’ approach and Graybar was the first manufacturer to think in terms of supporting the installation contractor with a complete points heating materials package. This typically includes a complete points heating kit of parts designed for the specific point type e.g. a cv full depth 113lb flat bottom point with slotted jaw blocks, together with a trackside points heating control cubicle that contains all the protective circuit devices, the weather sensing probes and the transformers.
The many advantages of this design includes the satisfaction of knowing that at least (a) all the materials are compatible, (b) a timely delivery can be achieved, (c) the whole system can easily be commissioned and (d) a single all-encompassing 10 year warranty applies.
In terms of installation benefits the aim of this design also optimises the on-track labour time and eliminates having to deliver to site and install other materials such as heavy trackside transformers, rail temperature probes, associated cabling, additional troughing, barrier rails and concrete bases.
Designing their points heating and working on a high speed rail link is also a reminder of the importance of safety, in particular from a maintenance perspective. Integrating the control system with the transformers and the 110 volt AC/DC heater feeder cables ensures that personnel can carry out their maintenance regime without having to gain access to the track.
The on-track points heating materials must be robust and reliable and cable connections must be minimised. Both of these criteria, coupled with the high performance and reliability of their self-regulating heater strip, also ensures long term maintenance free performance. The modular system described is certainly fully compliant with the requirements of Network Rail where a points heating system service life of at least 20 years is specified.
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