Point Machines Lowered

For tram systems without overhead line, traction energy either comes from energy-storage devices carried on board (batteries, supercaps) or is transferred via a supply system in the ground between the rails.by Bernd Meyer-Jarchow

For systems with underground power supply, the earthcases for point machines cannot rest on the level of the top of the rail as additional space is required in the tongue area for energy-supply components. This means the point machine must move downwards, and the position of the slot for the setting lever must be moved to the side.

Alstom’s APS™ system is used in the current Barcelona project with HANNING & KAHL supplying the point machines. While our proven electro-hydraulic and manual point machines are deployed, a totally new design was required for the earthcase. We came up with a universally deployable earthcase which can hold both the electro-hydraulic HWE61.1 AVV-ZVV and the manual HWU42. The earthcase body is designed in such a way that front and rear drainage are possible simply by rotating 180°. This greatly reduces the variety of parts required.

The lever box for manual setting of the drive mechanism which is standard centred between the rails has been moved to the side area at the level of the top of the rail.