Midland Main Line
Going live: testing of new infrastructure relating to the Midland Main Line electrification project is under way.
TESTING of new infrastructure relating to the Midland Main Line electrification project is under way.
East Midlands Railway will introduce electric trains on its Corby-St Pancras International route from December, using overhead line electrification installed north of Bedford as far as Kettering on the MML, and on the route to Corby.
“Obviously, the COVID-19 situation brings us challenges and the impact is being assessed. While this takes place, we are looking to test prioritised completed sections,” Network Rail spokesman Amy Brenndorfer told RAIL on April 7.
“Last week, this week and next week, we are working on the test train. Some of this may take place in the depot rather than out on track, but basically it’s getting the assessment software set up ready for online calibration including high-speed GPS and OLE noncontact systems.”
The test train is operated by Rail Operations Group (ROG) using its own locomotives, but with coaching stock owned by Data Acquisition & Testing Services. A modified Class 90 hired from DB Cargo UK is also being used in the testing.
Brenndorfer explained: “In the following weeks (subject to review), there will be further noncontact pantograph calibration - first with the lead locomotive, which is 90035.”
She said that in the third week of the project NR plans to start contact wire testing through selected sections, although confirmation was still awaited. This is when the wires will be live.
“First will be single pantograph testing with 90035, and when appropriate the two- and three-pantograph testing will be undertaken with the two Class
91s fitted with the same HSX pantographs, which are a similar specification to IEP’s pantograph,” she added.
The ‘91s’ (91122 and 91128) are leased by ROG and will eventually haul the test train under their own power. The ‘90’ will be located in the centre of the train when the ‘91s’ are powering.
The Intercity Express Programme (IEP) pantograph is fitted to Hitachi Class 800-802 trains, and the Japanese manufacturer is building similar Class 810 bi-mode units for EMR that will operate on electric power on the MML as far as Market Harborough. These are due to enter traffic from 2022.