Since 1968, Rotterdam has had the first Dutch metro system, a rapid transit system with a maximum speed of 80km/hr and 90 seconds headway. It consists of two main lines: the Erasmus Line and the Caland Line. Together they comprise over 55km of double track in tunnel, at grade and on elevated structures with 48 stations serving 88 million passengers annually.
While the existing signalling system is performing well in safety, operational and availability terms, RET identified the need to renew it as a preventative replacement. RET has renewed the signalling system in a technically challenging environment - implementing the change while maintaining the operation of a high speed urban metro system for the benefit of Rotterdam's citizens.
We provided a range of technical support, such as:
- Development of the re-signalling strategy with RET.
- Preparation of the function requirements specification and the life cycle model.
- Technical assistance in the pre-qualification short listing
- Presentation of the tender documents to industry.
- Assistance in the Q&A during the tender period.
- Providing full technical assistance throughout the tender evaluation period up to selected contractor.
The tender technical evaluation considered nine alternative solutions offered by the signalling industry, including:
- Fixed block coded ATP loops solution
- Coded track circuits system but with radio system
- Moving block radio solution
- Fixed block audio frequency track circuit solution
- Fixed block WLAN and balises solution
- Fixed block WLAN (through Leaky Feeder) solution
With our input RET was able to select a cost effective fixed block audio frequency track circuit solution with proof of past performance, proven technology and a creative migration plan, to minimise disruption to the travelling public in Rotterdam.