Project number: 2021-STN-019

Using signalling to improve rolling stock electromagnetic compatibility

The project published GMGN2694 Rolling Stock Electromagnetic Compatibility with Trackside CCS Subsystems. The guidance in this standard will shorten the time needed for vehicle testing before entering service.

'This brings all current rolling stock EMC requirements to one place, which is beneficial for all stakeholders.'

Yury Bocharnikov
Senior EMC Engineer, Alstom

The challenge

The EMC steering group had a list of long-standing issues and requested a new standard.

In response, RSSB started a project to publish a new guidance note on EMC for rolling stock designers, manufacturers, and operators.

The new standard needed to include a method for establishing EMC with signalling subsystems and point to existing EMC limits.

What we did

RSSB published GMGN2694. It provides guidance on establishing EMC with signalling subsystems.

It also addresses a problem on ac electrified lines where characteristics of trains can interfere with phone calls between drivers and signallers using lineside phones.

Part three of the standard includes limits for compatibility with various signalling subsystems, such as track circuits and interlocking. The standard was developed through drafting workshops.

Benefits delivered

GMGN2694 will cut the cost and time needed for trains to be compatible with signalling subsystems.

The total benefit of the standard is about £10m over 5 years from reduced design and maintenance costs.

Safety benefits include a reduction in instances where trains cause interference on lineside phones.