Siemens Mobility and Ruhrbahn GmbH have launched a major project to modernize and digitize the light rail control system in the cities of Essen and Mülheim an der Ruhr, this is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Siemens and Ruhrbahn to Digitize Europe's Largest Light Rail Network

As part of the contract, valued at around 180 million euros, the relay-based infrastructure, originally developed in the 1970s, will be completely overhauled.

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By 2031, outdated relay technologies at central stations will be replaced with modern electronic interlocking systems. This step aims to enhance the reliability and energy efficiency of the transportation system.

Supported by state and federal funds, the project includes the replacement of relay-based interlocking systems with electronic ones at five key points in the network, including Essen’s central station.

Siemens Mobility’s new Trackguard system will provide more precise and stable control of the railway infrastructure.

A particular focus of the modernization will be on integrating three- and four-rail systems with different track gauges.

This will ensure uninterrupted train operations despite existing differences in track gauge widths.

The modernization will be carried out in stages to minimize inconvenience for passengers.

Work will be conducted on individual sections of the network to limit temporary restrictions on train operations.

The project also includes the upgrade of a 28-kilometer control section with 39 stations.

New LED signaling equipment will be installed, the axle counting system for detecting vacant track sections will be upgraded, and all magnetic barriers that prevent trains from passing a red signal will be replaced.

This project reflects Ruhrbahn and Siemens Mobility’s commitment to implementing advanced technologies that will make the urban transport network more efficient and sustainable.

Digitization will not only improve the quality of passenger service but also significantly reduce energy consumption, aligning with modern requirements for the environmental and sustainable development of transportation infrastructure.

Photo: Ruhrbahn

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