Rail electrification

Summary

This course provides a foundational understanding of existing DC electrification systems and the latest advancements in AC electrification, equipping engineers with the knowledge in designing, operating, and maintaining modern rail electrified networks.

Rail electrification is a critical component of modern railway systems, enabling efficient, sustainable, and high-performance train operations.  

This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles, standards, and technologies involved in rail electrification, covering both AC and DC systems. It is designed to equip engineers with the knowledge required to design, operate, and maintain electrified rail networks effectively. 

Understanding rail electrification is essential for: 

• Project Execution: Ensuring compliance with regulations and standards while delivering electrification projects on time and within budget. 
• System Design and Integration: Developing efficient feeding arrangements, overhead line designs, and earthing systems. 
• Safety and Reliability: Managing fault levels, lightning protection, and disturbances to signalling and communication systems. 
• Operational Efficiency: Optimising rolling stock performance, traction systems, and power supply networks. 
• Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to UK, EU, and international standards for interoperability and safety. 

Who should attend?

How will I benefit?

After the course you will be able to:  

• Appreciate the requirements for electrified railways and the Government targets for reduction of CO2 emissions. 
• Recognise the need for Technical Assurance Process within the design phase of a project.  
• Comprehend the UK regulations on The Railways and Other Guided Transport Systems (Safety) Regulations 2006 and Electromagnetic Compatibility Regulations 2016: Great Britain; The Control of Electromagnetic Fields at Work Regulations 2016 and  The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989. 
• Comprehend the requirements for British Standards, European Standards; IEC standards; Group, Railway Industry, National Technical Specification Notice; ENA standards and ITUT standards. 
• Understand the principles of Railway Electrification 
• Comprehend the difference between AC and DC electrified lines. 
• Apply engineering knowledge to understand interfaces between railway engineering discipline 
• Apply EMC requirements between railway engineering disciplines.   
• Comprehend the difference between high speed and low speed electrified lines. 

Key topics

• Regulations and Standards
• Electricity Supply Connections
• Feeding Arrangements (Classic and Autotransformer)
• AC Overhead Line Design
• Earthing and Bonding
• Lightning Protection
• Rolling Stock and Traction Systems
• Disturbance to Signalling and Communication Systems
• DC Contact Systems and Return Current
• Technical Assurance and System Integration

Meet our trainers

These trainers regularly teach Rail electrification .