DB has installed sensors which will continuously monitor the temperature of the rails during the trials, which were launched in September 2019. It is hoped that the tests show the rails are capable of withstanding extreme heat. Previous lab tests finding that white rails remain up to 8°C cooler than their unpainted counterparts.
Britain: DB ESG has been awarded a contract by Siemens for installation design work for ETCS Level 2 Trainguard systems on class 47, 57, 59 and 60 freight locomotives. The contract follows previous work by DB ESG to provide the mechanical and electrical installation design for class 66 freight locomotives.
International: A research project to investigate green alternatives to diesel traction on lines where full electrification is not feasible has been launched. The project is a collaboration between rolling stock leaser Rock Rail, Dresden Technical University and the University of Birmingham.
Britain: Biometrics company iProov will provide facial recognition software for use by Eurostar, with live operation planned from March 2021. The software will be used to streamline ticket checking and border exit processes at London St Pancras International station.
Denmark: Femern has hired Munich-based Thinkproject to provide Building Information Modelling (BIM) services for the Fehmarn Belt undersea tunnel project. BIM is a 3D model-based process that aids in the planning, construction and management of infrastructure projects. The 18km, €6.9bn combined road and rail tunnel will link Denmark and Germany, and is currently scheduled to begin construction in January 2021, taking eight-and-a-half-years to complete.
Sweden: Axis Communications has launched two additions to its Axis P39 dome security cameras, specifically designed for installation on vehicles such as trains and buses. The cameras include a vandal-resistant casing, image stabilisation technology and additional options for infrared and two-way audio.
Britain: Fare payments company Masabi and Littlepay, a micropayment service provider, have partnered to develop a cost-effective, end-to-end contactless payment system for public transport. The impetus to provide contactless payment options has grown since the Covid-19 pandemic.
