Validation of a new model for railway overhead line dynamics

This paper presents details of a new model of railway overhead electric power line dynamics for prediction of contact wire–pantograph contact forces and wire uplift. It is validated against data from BS EN 50318:2002, and against data from track tests conducted at Network Rail's Melton Rail Innovation and Development Centre using a class 395 high-speed electric multiple unit. Its advantage over previous approaches is its implantation in a commercial non-linear finite-element package allowing application for a wide range of overhead line geometry. Overhead electric lines and their support structures are highly stressed components largely without redundancy, and their integrity (both mechanical and electrical) is crucial to the functioning of railway infrastructure. Their failure can be understood in terms of component wear, fatigue and corrosion, in addition to electrical equipment life expiry. These processes are driven by a combination of factors including cable tension, dynamic load from current collection pantographs, the frequency of support, and environmental loading (e.g. sparking and side-winds). The model described here is able to support decision making and cost-effectiveness regarding these aspects for new installations (e.g. designing for compliance with BS EN 50119:2009) and for maintenance of existing systems. The route for further extending its capabilities is outlined.