Plans for depot digitalisation
Automated inspection technology to be introduced at Southeastern’s Ramsgate depot.
SOUTHEASTERN’S Ramsgate depot will be the location for an automated train inspection system.
It will be developed by the operator in partnership with Siemens Mobility and leasing company Eversholt Rail.
Using high-sensitivity cameras and optical laser sensors, the equipment will be capable of gathering and analysing data regarding the condition of train brake pads, third rail traction current collector shoes, wheel profiles and tread thickness. The system will also run underframe inspections.
“The technology will provide detailed information on each train in the fleet which can then be used to reduce maintenance time in the depot, ensuring the trains can continue to run reliably,” explained John Butler, head of rail infrastructure customer service for Siemens Mobility in the UK and Ireland.
Programme
Southeastern says the information obtained through the technology will enable it to run a more efficient maintenance programme, based on demand and avoiding the need for work which would be carried out even if not needed as part of a purely mileage-based overhaul regime.
The operator believes it also has the potential to improve safety through performing consistent measurements and assessments which can be used to forecast problems and trigger alerts. “We’re always looking at how we can deliver a more reliable and sustainable railway to give better journeys for our passengers, and running a fully automated vehicle inspection system certainly helps us to do that,” added Southeastern’s engineering director Mark Johnson.
Design work on the system will begin at the end of this year with the aim of installing it in mid-2024.
The first automated inspections are expected to take place using it the following year.