Twente, Netherlands – Rail Track Monitoring
Challenge
Travel time between Amsterdam and Berlin was reduced by 30 minutes from December 2023. This required heavier locomotives that could run on both the Dutch (1500 V) and German (15000 V) power supply.
Due to the heavier locomotives traveling at a speed of 130 km/hr, Dutch rail operator ProRail was concerned about possible movement of the clay-rich soils on certain stretches of the track between Wierden and the German border.
To ensure stability of the track and guarantee passenger safety, ProRail needed a monitoring system capable of continuous and accurate reporting of track geometry.
Solution
ProRail decided to install a Senceive wireless monitoring system, capable of measuring track geometry with a high degree of precision and reliability.
Senceive manufacture all sensors in-house and are able to fulfil large orders. 3,622 NanoMacro Triaxial Tilt Sensors were delivered to ProRail in less than five weeks.
The High-G track tilt sensors were installed every 1.8 metres along the track to measure changes in twist and cant displacements. One cellular gateway with solar panel was installed for every 50 sensors to meet reporting rate requirements. The entire system was installed in five days.
Outcome
The system was up and running immediately following installation, with data sent from the sensors to the gateways and on to ProRail’s data viewing platform. Registered users can now view and interact with the track movement data from the comfort of their desks.
The system was configured to gather data every one minute and send automatic SMS and email alerts if movements breach certain thresholds.
The project team will now be able to assess long-term movement trends to optimise maintenance, as well as detect sudden movement that could represent a safety issue. The system will be in place for three years.
Further insight into changing ground conditions will come from inclinometers and extensometers installed in boreholes.
Downloads
Created on: Mon 23rd Sep 2024
Key Points
- Heavier locomotives on the Intercity Berlin to Amsterdam route meant certain clay-rich stretches of the track needed a reliable and accurate monitoring system.
- Senceive made and delivered over 3,000 tilt sensors in 5 weeks. The sensors were installed in 5 days, with online data available immediately.
- The accuracy and reliability of the wireless system will be an ideal long-term solution to provide all interested parties with reassurance that they will be alerted of any concerning movements.
