Rail is the most environmentally kind mode of transport, releasing 80% less greenhouse gas compared to motor vehicles. To satisfy growing demand, providers need reliable and low-emission line power, as well as asset and network management solutions to keep rolling stock moving.
UK Power Networks Services accelerates sustainable high-speed rail
UK Power Networks Services oversees HS1—the UK’s first high speed rail line. They are responsible for the safety, availability and reliability of power supply to trains on a 24/7 basis, so intel on how ALL rail assets are performing at any given time—and from any given place—is essential. To enhance its trackside data collection system and replace existing supervisory power control assets,
the company partnered with Hitachi Energy.
- Accelerated digitalization
- Improve efficiency
- Enable sustainable operations
Achieving truly sustainable railway operations requires a top-to-bottom approach—from the grid to the wheel—to minimize asset risks. This calls for agile mechanical & electrical design, AI-assisted maintenance, and the full embrace of all things digital.
What is the best path to achieving a superior passenger experience? For today’s rail companies, it begins with strategically cultivating the next level of digital insight. It requires transforming rail assets to be smarter and more sustainable, while prioritizing passenger and worker safety. And the management of power and infrastructure networks—as well as mission-critical communications—is paramount.
Communication networks for real-time decision making
Today’s intelligent transportation systems require agile communication support to manage complexity. Mission-critical networks connect the field to the operations center, enabling a seamless interplay between sensors, controllers, and software, as well as between operators and supervisory personnel.
Predictive asset management to avoid system downtime
Network maintenance and repair is the leading cause of rail downtime and the associated costs and revenue losses. Better asset management means predictive maintenance and AI-informed diagnostics. These tools allow operators to pinpoint network weaknesses and patch them up before they progress into critical failures. This enhanced information enables informed decisions for managing and maintaining networks.
Reduce manual diagnostics by over 60%
Hitachi Energy maintains electrical control systems for 2400 km of track
Control and monitoring for holistic operation
Rail networks become more complex as cities grow and passenger loads increase. Managing a dynamic system of this magnitude—and monitoring it at all levels—can be a cost and risk-laden endeavor. Operators need a simplified way to interact with power networks—line, city or country level—with a fully scalable control center that incorporates data I/O and remote RTU’s
Achieving truly sustainable rail operations requires a top-to-bottom approach—from the grid to the wheel—to minimize asset risks. This calls for agile mechanical & electrical design, AI-assisted maintenance, and the full embrace of all things digital.
In the rail segment, the need for efficient solutions for rolling stock is critically important to ensure energy use is optimized and downtime is minimized.
Turning energy into speed with traction transformers
Good traction transformers will ensure train efficiency, leading to smoother operation and reduced emissions. Traction transformers should be designed based on specific end-application—high-speed, commuter and regional trains, locomotives, tram-trains and AC metros. Designs range in terms of size, weight and power ratings.
Improving reliability with surge arresters
Over-voltage transients can threaten entire railway electrical systems, resulting in costly downtown. Surge arresters are the primary protection against atmospheric and switching over voltages. Reliable power supply is a key ingredient to more sustainable operations.
Turning energy into speed with traction transformers
Trains require several levels of targeted cooling. On the one hand, a cooling system ensures high availability of equipment by protecting installations from overheating and catching fire. From a passenger standpoint, they allow a comfortable cabin experience no matter the outdoor temperature.
Achieving truly sustainable rail operations requires a top-to-bottom approach—from the grid to the wheel—to minimize asset risks. This calls for agile mechanical & electrical design, AI-assisted maintenance, and the full embrace of all things digital.
Rail operators are seeking an optimized electrification solution that ensures high-performance rail while minimizing the impact on the environment.
Hitachi Energy to maintain electrical control system for 2400km of track
Turning energy into speed with traction transformers
Good traction transformers will ensure train efficiency, leading to smoother operation and reduced emissions. Traction transformers should be designed based on specific end-application—high-speed, commuter and regional trains, locomotives, tram-trains and AC metros. Designs range in terms of size, weight and power ratings.
Store energy more robustly
The performance of rail electrical networks depends on consistent and reliable grid functioning. Battery storage is a necessary component to prevent outages and downtime.
Up to and including 800kV
Communicate reliably and securely across networks
Rail networks are growing ever more vast and complex. Operators need a modern system to ensure rapid and secure communication to keep the system on track. Network Manager helps railway operators increase reliability and improve journeys, whilst reducing costs and carbon emissions.
Knowledge base
