We have an extensive portfolio of case studies that reflects our knowledge and capabilities on Operations, on Track and on Train across the global rail industry.
Switch Redesign Case Study
DeltaRail Infrastructure Support Case Studies
TracklineTwoWheel Rail Profile Optimisation
Attended Track Geometry
Switch Redesign
Data Integration for Points Maintenance
Switch Redesign
The Project
In October 2003, an underground train traversed a set of facing points on the approach to Camden Town station, derailing the front bogie of the last car in the rake. Evidence gathered by DeltaRail's Incident Investigation Service confirmed the derailment was the result of wheel flange climb at the points. However, as the switches were of an industry standard design and had been installed correctly, simply replacing the switch would not prevent re-occurance.
DeltaRail's Vampire simulation software was used to demonstrate the derailment mechanism. The software was then used to develop a new switch blade to prevent a recurrence of the problem. As the design was developed using a 3D CAD package, it could be sectioned to provide 2D slices for incorporation into further simulations.
The simulations predicted a significantly reduced risk of derailment for the revised switch blade design and the results were validated on-site by means of high speed cameras. Shortly after testing, the line was re-opened for operation.
The Benefits
The Vampire simulations clearly demonstrated the derailment mechanism, giving London Underground and Tube Lines confidence in the modelling process and providing a means of developing and assuring the redesign of the junction concerned. Further assessments for similar sites across the London Underground network have allowed derailment risk on other switches to be mitigated. This has produced a library of switch and vehicle designs which has proved useful for investigating other issues on the underground network.
