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About TRAIN

With the development of every new rail line or with the upgrade of an existing rail system, careful and comprehensive analyses must be undertaken, to ensure a project meets operation demands without compromising on efficiency.

TRAIN is a sophisticated simulation programme requiring several input parameters to provide an accurate analysis.

Network build

By knowing the voltage from the previous time step and the required current for each train, TRAIN can calculate an equivalent resistance. This forms a large resistance network based on the resistance of the conductor rails, running rails and the equivalent resistance of each train.

Solution

TRAIN solves this resistance network using Kirchoff’s Voltage Law to build a matrix, and solves this matrix to obtain the new voltages and currents around the rail network.

Based on these new voltages and currents, TRAIN moves each train to its new position, ready for the next time step and for the whole procedure to be repeated.

We undertake advanced simulations of rail systems using Mott MacDonald's innovative, industry-recognised software – TRAIN – which has been developed in-house over many years.

Rolling stock fleet size, scheduling of train services, energy consumption and electrical traction systems parameters have to all be determined before a rail system can function properly. TRAIN can be used as a complete analysis package by determining these functions.

TRAIN is equally applicable to diesel and electrically powered systems for both the alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) systems at any line voltage and using any type of traction pick up and return system.

A DC traction system is modelled using substations placed approximately 3km apart and the conductor rail and running rails modelled separately form the go and return circuit from the substation to the train. The rail to earth resistance can also be modelled if required.

An AC traction system can be built using four different systems, which are either, rail return, booster transformer, multiple return conductor or auto transformer. TRAIN is capable of modelling all of these systems.

TRAIN can also simulate operational modelling including alternative train paths, temporary speed limits, open circuit breaker, extra dwell time, tractive effort multiplier and eco coasting.

Data output is available in graphical and tabulated forms for easy and quick reference and analysis. TRAIN can output data relating to the loadings of plant and equipment, line voltage and touch potentials, so that the location of substations can be determined to optimise system performance.

TRAIN is able to validate timetables under different operating conditions to assess their suitability. A video of the simulation can be created showing the movement of trains so the interaction of trains along the routes can be observed and analysed.

TRAIN simulates highly complex systems, handling an unlimited number of junctions and modelling all tracks on any route. Traffic may be simulated, from intensive city metros to heavy, freight railways.

Mixed passenger and freight railways with different traction characteristics and the effects of mixed-class rolling stock train formations, can be easily modelled.

TRAIN can model regenerative braking, on-board energy storage and wayside energy storage systems.