Electric Traction

Checking that the electric power in sub-tations and on the track is correctly dimensioned when commissioning of new and modified lines.

Tests objectives :

• Characterize the “energy” parameters in sub-stations and the power supply delivered to the OCL in sub-stations and on the track
  – In steady state: revenue service and test trains
  – In transient state: during operation of equipment and OCL/rail short-circuits
• Highlight abnormal phenomena

Tests facilities :

• VULCAIN and LUCIE trainsets
• Recorders and analyzers installed onboard trains and trackside

Testing Norms :

NF EN 50163 – Supply voltages of traction systems

NF EN 50122 – Fixed installations – Electrical safety, earthing and the return circuit

Technical Specifications for Interoperability “Energy” (ENE TSI)

Check that the traction return current is consistent with studies and locate defects in case of an incident on a rail line.

Tests objectives :

• Measure current flowing in the rails – in order to characterize the traction return current circuit (1,500 V DC / 25,000 V, 50 Hz AC)
• Measure line voltage and absorbed current – in order to characterize the influence of traffic on line voltage
• Measure the relative temperature of the electrical components in the OCL at constant power.

Tests facilities :

• LUCIE testing car – to monitor electric power facilities
• VULCAIN test wagon – capable of absorbing nominal current
• Dedicated measuring chain equipment
• Operators specializing in Lucie and Vulcain train operation
• Thermographic camera (for detecting abnormal heating in the vicinity of the OCL)

Ensuring the safety of staff and passengers on the track, checking there is no loss of power loss and guaranteeing signalling installation availability.

Tests objectives :

• Characterize in sub-stations and on specific places on the rail line:
  – Traction return current
  – Rail/ground voltage
• In steady state: revenue service and test trains
• In transient state: during OCL/rail short-circuits

Tests facilities :

• LUCIE testing car – to monitor electric power facilities
• VULCAIN test wagon – capable of absorbing nominal current
• Recorders and analyzers installed on trains and trackside

Testing Norms :

NF EN 50122- Fixed installations – Electrical safety, earthing and the return circuit