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Electrén is carrying out one of the most important infrastructure projects being executed for SNCF on French rail lines: modification of the catenary on the Paris-Lyon high-speed rail line to meet the new standards for speeds of 300 Km/h.
The most complex aspect of the project lies in the need to return the line to perfect operating condition each morning, so that the TGV can run at 300 Km/h.
The modification work consists of replacing the 120 mm2 contact wire at 1,500 kilograms of tension, installing 150 mm2 contact wire at 200 kilograms; removing the Y-shaped catenary hanger, and replacing all the old bracing systems with others which comply with current regulations.
Replacement and installation of the contact wire is carried out using track cars which are pulled by a hydraulic catenary installation train which can remove and roll the used wire while simultaneously installing the new wire. The track cars are equipped with lift platforms and cranes.
To change the catenary hangers, other track vehicles are used. These can leave the track rapidly in case of emergency, thanks to a traction system which makes use of chains.
The work team is made up of more than 30 people, including the customer's controllers and inspectors, operators and supervisors.
In an environment in which Spanish railways are doing extremely well, it is interesting to reflect on the bold strategy of the companies designing this growth. They are not expanding into activities in which they become simple administrators, but rather exporting their best abilities, their own resources. |
