Upgrades to life expired electrified assets across North West and Central
To ensure continued reliability, improve safety, and increase performance of electrified infrastructure across Network Rail's North West and Central region, VolkerRail is upgrading life expired assets across 12 sites along the route.
The upgrades form part of the North West Electrification Programme (NWEP) post commission works, to address outstanding deficiencies of assets, and will see VolkerRail, with the support of subcontractor A&M:
- Replace 33 microswitches
- Renew or remove 20 vacuum interrupters
- Replace and upgrade E&P and OLE componentry
- Undertake verification of earthing and bonding systems
- Complete cable management and containment improvements.
Microswitches are used to provide vital safety and control information, most commonly for detecting the exact position of railway points. They are also essential to train safety systems, ensuring doors remain closed while the train is in motion.
Vacuum interrupters are vital components used to protect the network and trains from short circuits and overloads components by rapidly interrupting the flow of electric current in the 25kV AC overhead power lines, separating the contacts within a sealed vacuum chamber.
This is a complex programme of upgrades, with completion dates driven by the aging condition of existing assets, and many worksites in close proximity to residential properties.
To date, teams have replaced 16 vacuum interrupters and all 33 microswitches, with 24 now fully commissioned.
The remaining four vacuum Interrupters, and final commissioning works will be completed in December.
Andrew Craven, VolkerRail general manager, commented: “The success of these upgrades is thanks to the continued collaboration of all parties. Teams have worked tirelessly to ensure minimal disruption to lineside neighbours. Work has also been undertaken in conjunction with the wider supply chain, to maximise site access and prioritise key asset renewals.”
