Ensuring and Extending the Availability of RegioCitadis

The Hague’s trams run on one of the largest tram networks in Europe, on 1435-mm gauge with 600 V overhead line voltage. Most terminal stations have turning loops which allow uni-directional vehicles. One exception is Loosduinen, the final stop on Line 3, where only bi-directional vehicles run, namely RandstadRail’s RegioCitadis. By Frank Lindhorst

After the last of the once large PCC fleet were withdrawn from service in 1993, transport provider HTM Personenvervoer (HTM) had a completely uniform vehicle park consisting of 147 GTL8 articulated trams. The 100 trains of the first generation are 28.6m long and were built in Bruges between 1981 and 1984 at La Brugeoise et Nivelles (BN) (today part of Bombardier Transportation). The 47 vehicles of the second generation were put into service in 1992 and 1993 and are 29.0 metres long.

45 RegioCitadis vehicles run on the lines served by RandstadRail (3 and 4). In November 2011, HTM ordered 40 four-section Siemens Avenio vehicles with an option for a further 40 which were supplied from February 2014 onwards (TW 5000). Half of the option were ordered in March 2014. The 60 Avenio motor bogies were supplied in 2014 and 2015.

In 2021, HTM asked us to elaborate a general overhaul concept for the RegioCitadis vehicles. Together with the operator, we disassembled some exemplary brake components at HANNING & KAHL in order to assess and determine which components needed to be replaced and establish the scope of the overhaul. GO was based on component wear and the chapter on recommended maintenance in the HANNING & KAHL operating manual.

We prepared an offer for general overhauls (GO) based on the assessment. HTM Personenvervoer appointed HANNING & KAHL to overhaul the brake components for 19 vehicle kits in January 2022. We also received the order to commission all 19 vehicles. 

Together with HTM, we devised and coordinated a schedule to ensure smooth operations.

The Oberhausen-based company Gutehoffnungshütte, Aktienverein für Bergbau und Hüttenbetrieb (GHH) is overhauling the bogies and disassembling and assembling the spring-applied actuators and the track brakes. HANNING & KAHL is installing the hydraulic units, bladder accumulators and auxiliary release valves as part of commissioning.

Seven vehicles are to be overhauled in 2022. The remaining 12 vehicles are planned for 2023 and 2024. The first overhauled vehicle was put back into service in The Hague in March 2022. The main aspects of the GO were cleaning the pipework, setting work following re-assembly, and generation of an inspection protocol.

We look forward to continuing our good working relationship with HTM and GHH Oberhausen.