Edmonton Metro Line | Canada
train-detectionCanada

Edmonton Metro Line

Operator
Edmonton Metro Line
Country
Canada
Partner
Alstom
Segment
Urban
Application
Track Vacancy Detection
Products
RSR180, FAdC
Year
2019

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.

Similar Projects
This might also interest you
1/5
train-detectionSpain

Three-rail Castellbisbal

The dual-gauge system of the Spanish railway network is quite challenging in terms of track vacancy detection: Wheel sensors must be installed on two rails next to each other in tight spaces and have to detect axles reliably on the respective rail. Frauscher developed a solution which copes also with the complexity of different interlocking technology in the stations along the line.
train-detectionUnited Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Churnet Valley Heritage Railway

The Churnet Valley Heritage Railway preserves England's rich heritage of steam-powered rail transport.
train-detectionFrance

Homologation for the Île-de-France tramway network

The network of Île-de-France tramways in the region of Paris has been a showcase model of public transport since the line T1 opened in 1992. Over a million passengers use these trams daily and today, the system consists of 11 lines covering over 100 kilometres of track. Over the next years it is planned to expand this network even further. For track vacancy detection, the Frauscher axle counting system is considered as being the ideal solution for this comprehensive network.
train-detectionSerbia

Hungary-Serbia Railway Project

The Hungary-Serbia Railway Project is an iconic project of the “One Belt One Road” Initiative between China and CEE countries. Frauscher provides not only high-quality solutions but also detailed technical support and clarification.
train-detectionUnited States of America

Class 1 Grade Crossing Enhancement FAdC and RSR180

Frauscher was approached by a US Class 1 railroad regarding a grade crossing owned and operated by them, on a track crossing a public road. The operator’s main goal was to find a signaling solution that would seamlessly integrate with the current crossing controller and keep the crossing operational under challenging operational conditions. The Frauscher Advanced Counter FAdC and Wheel Sensor RSR180 were chosen as the ideal solution for this particular project.