Modernising Burgau Depot: Technological Innovations in Operation

For Jena’s public transport system, which transports 34,000 people daily, the tram is indispensable. New, modern TRAMLINK „Lichtbahnen“ “light trams” built by Stadler are replacing the old vehicles to cater for the growing numbers of passengers. The barrier-free trams offer more comfort, space and energy efficiency. A total of 33 new trams were supplied up to 2024. 16 of these vehicles are 42 metres long, the rest are 32 metres long. Their arrival called for reconstruction of Burgau depot to meet the growing requirements.   By Kay Klöcker

Burgau depot is undergoing extensive modernization and being equipped with the latest HANNING & KAHL technology. The heart of the depot is the HVIP controller which is linked to a Frauscher axle-counting system throughout the depot. This advanced technology enables highly precise control and monitoring of the vehicles in the depot.

Another central element of the new infrastructure is the HCS-V communication system which is deployed in the new vehicle fleet. It replaces the HCS-R system and enables bi-directional data transmission, which ensures reliable vehicle registration and deregistration in the depot. This improves the efficiency and the quality of communication between vehicle and controllers.

The controller is set up in two control segments, whereby one of the control segments is directly connected to the main line. Four control cabinets are installed in control segment 1, and six control cabinets in control segment 2. The depot can be controlled flexibly and efficiently thanks to the possibility of decentralizing and networking the HVIP.

The depot also has a wheel-shunt detector and a HCS test unit.

The extensive refurbishment also comprises installation of around 60 wheel sensors. With the combinations these allow, small and, above all, short counting segments can be formed on the depot.

Secured routes can thus be individually composed of segment parts, and new secured route requests can be fulfilled as soon as individual segments become free. The safety-oriented HVIP controller rules out collisions due to conflicting runs.

In total, about 600 secured routes can be formed on the depot, whereby 90 % of the wheel sensors are mounted in the grooved-rail area. The grooved rails were milled at the corresponding mounting locations with the HANNING & KAHL track trimmer for the purpose. As the wheel sensors are installed on separate rail track, impact, for example by road traffic, is ruled out.

The existing point machines have been refurbished with modern conversion kits to integrate seamlessly into the HVIP controller. As soon as a secured route is requested, a matrix signal indicates the start and destination track to the driver, ensuring clear and safe navigation on the depot.

With these extensive refurbishment measures, Burgau depot will be well-equipped for the future, and smooth, safe and efficient operations are guaranteed.