Impact of electromagnetic phenomena on automatics, telemechanics and traffic control systems in DC and AC contact network’s power supply joint stations

Abstract

The article examines technical problems emerging in connection of railway sections with different contact network powering systems, and methods for their solution are relevant when connecting electrified railways of separate countries into common Trans-European corridors. The article presents practical and theoretical aspects and methods of solution for technical issues related to DC- and AC-electrified railway line joints. It provides theoretical calculations and test data evidencing impact of various systems on automatics, telemechanics and traffic control systems. For determination of factors influencing traffic control and signalling systems, the authors performed tests allowing to prove that, especially in winter periods, direct traction currents, when ‘rail-ground’ electric resistance increases significantly, reach a distant AC-electrified section and influence the traffic control and signalling system installed therein, namely generate interference endangering traffic safety.