Axle Counter Mis-counts Investigation

Neasden Depot

The Neasden Depot Signalling Upgrade Project had installed a new Signalling Locktrac 6172 PMI Control System post-October 2011. The method of train detection was based on a multi-section axle counter system from Thales (AzLM). In February 2013, several instances of multiple disturbed axle counter blocks due to the passage of a train were experienced. Following a previous investigation, the business requested further investigation to identify the root cause, as the inability to berth 96115 at Neasden Depot was having an impact and also keen to understand whether there is an underlying condition that could cause wider problems with the rest of the fleet.

Client: LU – Capital Programmes

Date: 2014

Activities & Deliverables

Synergy Rail provided engineering technical support to achieve the following objectives:

  • Established that the Axle Counter System under test was within Spec (LU APD) through Inspection and Test Measurement
  • Ensured that Trains under test (96115 and another 96 Stock for comparison) were within Spec (LU APD) through Inspection and Test Measurement.
  • Monitored the movement of trains over pre-tested axle counter sections, assessing AzLM ACE (evaluator) performance in SER (correct counting) and AzLM EAK on the track, with the aim of monitoring EM field variation with the passage of trains to isolate potential faults
  • Conducted on-board monitoring of traction and auxiliary systems current by the fleet to identify potentially abnormal measurements

Clients

Clients & Associates