Sanders

Lot 1 – Designing, planning, managing and analysing results from braking tests aimed to determine the improvement in braking performance, in simulated low adhesion conditions, that can be achieved with a single sander that varies its delivery rate with speed compared to a single fixed rate sander, and also with the benefit of distributed sanders.

Lot 2 – Designing, planning, managing and analysing results from train detection tests on a number of different track circuits to determine the upper limit of sand density (in terms of g/m) that leads to a wheelset becoming isolated from the rail – resulting in a loss of track circuit detection – and determine how many wheelsets are required to disperse sand laid at this rate before sand can be re-applied.

Additional information: RSSB is seeking to understand the implications of distributed sanding and variable rate sanding for train braking capability in low adhesion conditions and the impact this will have on track circuits and train detection.

RSSB will be inviting suppliers to participate in an open tender for provision of services to the work. The work will be divided in two lots:

Lot 1 – Designing, planning, managing and analysing results from braking tests aimed to determine the improvement in braking performance, in simulated low adhesion conditions, that can be achieved with a single sander that varies its delivery rate with speed compared to a single fixed rate sander, and also with the benefit of distributed sanders. For this lot RSSB will source trains and test track for the testing.

Lot 2 – Designing, planning, managing and analysing results from train detection tests on a number of different track circuits to determine the upper limit of sand density (in terms of g/m) that leads to a wheelset becoming isolated from the rail – resulting in a loss of track circuit detection – and determine how many wheelsets are required to disperse sand laid at this rate before sand can be re-applied. For this lot RSSB expects the supplier to source train and track for testing.

We are keen to engage with suppliers who have capabilities and experience in on-track testing, braking systems and sanders (including interaction with brake control systems and wheel slide protection), train detection and vehicle modification. We would like to hear from suppliers who can demonstrate experience of testing involving multiple parties.

NOTE: To register your interest in this notice please email Shareditt@RSSB.co.uk, stating ‘Sanders Tender’ in as the subject.