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Report
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Secondary train detection systems: Axle counters vs Track circuits

  • Europe
  • Global
  • Urban mobility
Axle counters vs Track circuits

Key parameters for choosing secondary train detection systems

CBTC systems drive the choice between axle counters and track circuits for train detection.

When upgrading metro systems with CBTC technology, both axle counters and track circuits play a crucial role as secondary detection systems. Each has distinct advantages, but the choice depends on their reliability, maintenance needs, and compatibility with modern signalling.

This paper provides comparison between axle counters and track circuits to help select the most suitable secondary detection system.

Contents:

  • Introduction
    • Issue
    • Purpose of the study
    • Methodology
    • Abbreviations
    • Survey contributors
  • Questionnaire results
    • Part 1 – Sensitive to environmental conditions
    • Part 2 – Supply costs
    • Part 3 – Track section length
    • Part 4 – Broken rail detection
    • Part 5 – Maintenance
  • Conclusions

The report is based on the contribution of the following operators:

  • STM

    Montreal, Canada

  • TMB

    Barcelona, Spain

  • TfL

    London, United Kingdom

  • CCR

    São Paulo, Brazil

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