ROSCOs funding research to enhance rail safety and performance

Working together, Angel Trains, Beacon Rail, Eversholt Rail, and Rock Rail have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). RSSB is creating a framework for research for the future, with collaboration on long-term topics. 

The agreement is under way, with a forum set up to govern the work and co-funding in place for the following key research projects in the first year: 

• Enhanced trailing arm bush prototype testing. This innovative new train suspension design aims to reduce costs for the industry by reducing track wear, while further improving the ride comfort of rail travel. 
  
  
• Review of alternating current electric rolling stock power limitations. To improve system capacity and optimise train performance without the need for major new investment.
  
  
• Framework for assessment of technologies to deliver reliable braking in low adhesion. Supporting a strategic approach to mitigating low adhesion conditions that impact rail operations and safety. This will involve enabling the assessment of new and existing solutions for low adhesion management.
  
  
• Improving the assessment of rolling stock crashworthiness. Modelling the potential consequences of a train-train collision, train-object collision, train-buffer collision, and train derailment to help make rail safer.

To support the research, the ROSCOs are also supplying expertise, evidence, and data into the projects. The first research projects are ongoing, with delivery expected to be complete in 2025 and 2026. 

Richard Walker, RSSB’s Deputy Director Research, said: ‘These four important research projects, collaboratively funded for the first time in partnership with multiple ROSCOs, are going to bring benefits to the whole rail industry.

‘The commitment from our partners, Angel Trains, Rock Rail, Eversholt Rail, and Beacon Rail, shows the ROSCOs’ dedication to supporting improvements to GB rail.

‘Enhanced safety, increased frequency, and reliable train services are essential to meet the expectations of passengers and customers. These projects will make key contributions towards achieving these goals.’

Matthew Prosser, Asset Management Director, Angel Trains, said: ‘We’re really pleased to be a part of these four important research projects with RSSB. Angel Trains is committed to the success of the UK rail industry, and we look forward to seeing the benefits this research will bring in enhancing rail safety and performance.’

Ross Shepherd, Group Chief Technical Officer, Beacon Rail, said: ‘Beacon is proud to support RSSB’s cutting-edge research that will enhance the safety, environmental performance, and efficiency of the UK’s railway. By investing in innovation today, we are helping to build a more sustainable and resilient transport system for tomorrow.’

Paul Sutherland, Client Services Director, Eversholt Rail, said: ‘Signing this MOU has set up a means by which the RSSB and the ROSCOS can focus on a variety of topics relating to rail vehicles and their interaction with the infrastructure. This will unlock safety and performance benefits and inform work on future rail technology. Eversholt Rail is proud to be working in collaboration on these projects.’

James Herriott, Engineering Director, Rock Rail, said: ‘As a long-term asset manager with a commitment to sustainable, innovative, and high-performing rolling stock, Rock Rail is proud to collaborate with RSSB and our ROSCO partners on this critical programme of research. These projects address key technical challenges – from optimising braking performance in low adhesion conditions to advancing suspension design and improving safety in collisions.

‘By contributing funding, operational data, and technical expertise, we aim to support evidence-based solutions that not only enhance rail safety and efficiency but also align with Rock Rail’s strategic goals of reducing carbon emissions, improving asset performance, and delivering long-term value across the UK rail network.’