SENSYS Traffic have launched a new generation of Automatic Panthograph Monitoring System, APMS II.
With increased utilization of rail networks and deregulation trends resulting in a growing number of rolling stock operators, infrastructure providers are experiencing an urgent need to protect their infrastructure from damage. The sensitive overhead contact wire is a crucial part of an electrified rail network and damage to the contact wire results in untimely and often lengthy traffic interruptions. Monitoring the condition of pantographs, a trains current collector, is an effective preventative method for avoiding costly de-wirements and for reducing infrastructure wear and tear.
An infrastructure provider is often only concerned with pantograph damage but rolling stock operators can also benefit from APMS II installations, when the data is made available for use. The ability to visually inspect the status of carbon strips at regular intervals and prior to scheduled service, will lead to more efficient and cost effective rolling stock maintenance. With APMS II, these inspections can be done from a central office, saving time and resulting in far more accurate assessments.
Sensys Traffic’s APMS II uses non-contact technology for analyzing the condition of passing pantographs at regular train operating speeds up to 250 km/h. Once installed, the sensor is designed to operate 24/7 without interrupting train traffic, including times when maintenance and service is performed.
When damage is detected, the detector sends an alarm via Ethernet or GSM/3G to central control for verification and further actions. An alarm is sent within minutes of the passing event.
Sensys APMS II is designed and built to comply with Sweden’s infrastructure provider´s strict standards for track-side equipment. The first detector was installed in 2004.