Edmonton Metro Line | Canada

Download Case Study

The Edmonton Metro Line was experiencing significant issues with its newly installed Communications Based Train Control (CBTC) signalling system, which did not perform to the operator‘s expectations. The city was forced to run an incomplete schedule with reduced train speed and frequency which negatively affected commuters and the city of Edmonton in general. Finally in 2019, the operator decided to install a new system in cooperation with Frauscher.

Urban transit systems, especially LRT lines like Edmonton Metro that include street cars, have unique characteristics that can negatively affect the availability of the train detection system. In this case, trains were not running on schedule, were often delayed at stations and would sometimes stop suddenly without explanation.

Frauscher was brought in to fix these issues and provide a solution that meets the needs of Edmonton Metro and guarantees a considerably better performance. Rather than continue using a complex moving block design that proved difficult to implement, the system was replaced with a simple, highly available fixed block system using the Frauscher Advanced Counter FAdC and Frauscher Wheel Sensor RSR180. The CENELEC SIL 4 safety-rated solution proved to be unaffected by severe winter conditions and the ability to offer flexible installation options using Frauscher rail claws.

The robust Frauscher system has been proven to function reliably, providing the city of Edmonton with an efficient transit system it can depend on. Additional advantages to the operator include low maintenance requirements and costs, as well as the implementation of advanced smart functionalities that further increase system availability for this mixed track line. In addition, the system is future proof in the event of increased ridership and additional trains.

Rugged and robust

The operator obtained confidence in the Frauscher trackside equipment by experiencing first-hand its functionality, reliability, and robustness in all environmental conditions, even when fully exposed to temperatures as low as -40 °F (-40 °C).

Easy integration

Frauscher worked with the integrator to design a simple but highly reliable fixed block system. The Frauscher Advanced Counter FAdC was combined with an Ethernet interface and easily integrated with the vital controller, without the need for relays.

Excellent support

Installation of the system took place during the pandemic lockdown period. Although not physically present, Frauscher engineers were able to remotely train the integrator’s personnel to handle the installation with little intervention and assist during and after the successful installation.

Smart functionalities

The Counting Head Control CHC and Supervisor Track Section STS maintain maximum availability of the system without additional equipment or expense.

Smart maintenance system

The information provided by the Frauscher Diagnostic System FDS in real time allows the operator to focus maintenance work on areas of need, leading to a reduction in overall maintenance costs, worker time on track, and emergency maintenance.

Project details
Operator
Edmonton Metro Line
Country or region
Canada
Partner
Alstom
Segment
Tram & Metro
Axle Counting
Frauscher Advanced Counter FAdC
Wheel Detection
Wheel Sensor RSR180
Application
Track vacancy detection
Year
2019
Counting Head
65
Similar projects

This might also interest you

Frauscher Train Detection Metro Warsaw

Metro Warsaw | Poland

Metro Warsaw was looking for an alternative to track circuits for the line M2, to increase the availability of public transport by using reliable signalling technology. In the end, the operator even decided to replace the existing track circuits on line M1 with the Frauscher Axle Counter ACS200.

Learn more

Dillinger Hütte | Germany

A new ladder track was required to provide more parking tracks in the steel plant. At the same time, the layout of the dead end tracks were optimised and the efficiency of the whole depot improved by installing the Frauscher Advanced Counter FAdCi in combination with the wheel sensor RSR180. With the implementation of the Frauscher Diagnostic System FDS, the overall maintenance costs can be significantly reduced.

Learn more

Kokkola | Finland

Frauscher supplied one of Finland’s busiest railway lines with new Axle Counters. The line was extended from a single to a double track section and Mipro was looking for a solution which can interface with their interlocking system in an efficient and cost effective way. Other important criteria was a minimum maintenance requirement and outdoor equipment which can cope with the harsh environmental conditions in Finland.

Learn more
All Projects