Towards new partnerships – rail mobility in Spain & Portugal

Improving capacity, safety and productivity

Our managing director Renate Bay introduced our portfolio of inertial sensor solutions including ASC’s high-precision accelerometers and gyroscopes proven to meet the harshest conditions and requirements of diverse railway and rail infrastructure applications; as well as our digital and smart sensor technology compliant with EN50155.

ASC’s innovative, future-ready sensor systems met a lot of interest. Renate was able to discuss and answer lots of inquiries regarding the increase of capacity, safety and ride comfort through, for example, improved testing and monitoring of rolling stock or the constant infrastructure monitoring of rail bridges, tunnels and other constructions. To keep people and cargo safe, and operations smooth and productive.

The visit included 15 participating companies and was hosted by Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action with support from the German Railway Industry Association.

Meeting EN 50155 standards

Innovative sensor systems are able to seamlessly interface with operators’ existing systems for broad applicability. To install electronic equipment on a train or other rolling stock, it must comply with EN 50155 (IEC 60571) standards for environmental, shock, vibration, power supply, EMC, power surge, ESD and transient factors that could occur when in use.

Meeting this rigorous standard, ASC’s galvanic isolated sensors offer enhanced protection to railway electronics against harmful voltage transients and electrical noise, commonly arising from traction systems, motors and other onboard equipment. They break ground loops, eliminating unwanted current flows and ensuring accurate measurements. In addition, the sensors seamlessly interface between varying voltage levels within a train’s subsystems, promoting efficient communication without direct electrical connections. This ensures optimal performance and prolongs onboard electronics’ lifespan, leading to reductions in maintenance and costs.

Lisbon, Barcelona and a sustainable future

In Lisbon, the spotlight was on expanding metro lines and several high-speed rail links, e.g. connecting Porto and Lisbon or Lisbon and Madrid.

The metropolitan region of Barcelona continues expanding, propelling the need for enhanced mobility. A partially automated public transport network is envisaged to meet the growing demands of the region’s citizens. Beneath densely populated areas, a tunnel for Metro L9 is under construction and digital signaling technology introduced to ensure reliable service.

At both stops of this visit, it was invigorating to witness the energy and vision with which representatives of the railway industry championed the benefits of improved rail transportation. The commitment to innovating rail services was palpable and inspiring.

At ASC, we take pride in our role to help drive solutions that contribute to the productive, sustainable future of metro, long-distance and cargo railway systems as a reliable mobility option for the next generations.