Work on upgrading train control and safety systems, as well as system testing, has progressed on the Tampere–Pori/Rauma track section over the summer. Field tests of a new train control and safety system have begun on the Kokemäki–Rauma section, and preparations are now underway for test runs.
The implementation of the Digirail project on the Tampere–Pori/Rauma track section has entered a new phase over the summer. At the beginning of the summer, the Kokemäki–Rauma track section reached test readiness, after which testing of the new system could begin in a real-world rail environment.
As part of the Digirail project, Finland’s current train control system will be gradually upgraded to a system based on the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS). The new system will first be implemented for passenger and freight traffic on the Tampere–Pori/Rauma track section.
The functionality of the Object Controllers is being tested in the rail environment
The Object Controller SIT tests, i.e. system integration testing for the implementation have been launched on the Kokemäki–Rauma section during the summer. The tests ensure that the equipment installed along the track operates as intended and as part of the overall system.
During the summer, tests were conducted on, among other things, shunting signals and axle counters used to prove track vacancy. Testing of the balises that are part of ETCS (European Train Control System) also began at the Tampere railway yard.
Balises are devices installed on the track, and their primary function is to verify a train’s positioning data. The tests ensure that the data programmed into the balises is correctly transmitted to the train’s ETCS equipment. Balise testing will continue in the autumn on the Kokemäki-Rauma track section.
The next major step is the start of the test runs. During test runs, the operation of the new system will be tested on moving rolling stock in a real-world rail environment under the supervision of an inspector.
Additional information:
Aapo Tiilikainen
Project Manager, Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency
The Digirail project is making rail transport in Finland safer, smoother and more efficient. The project is reinventing the outdated train control system and introducing a shared European radio-based train control system across the entire rail network. Digirail will enable safe transport, an improved service level and growth of capacity, and it will create a long-term technical foundation for Finnish railway traffic. The Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency, Fintraffic and the Ministry of Transport and Communications are collaborating in the project with other actors.