 Unit 6 Signalling and Supervisory Control

 6.1 Requirements of signalling systems.

Requirements of Signalling Systems in Electric Traction:
1. Safety Enhancement:
• Train Separation: Ensuring safe distances between trains to prevent collisions or
accidents.
• Emergency Response: Facilitating immediate responses to emergencies like
derailments or power failures.
• Overhead Line Clearance: Ensuring that the electric locomotives have adequate
clearance from overhead wires, avoiding contact accidents.
2. Traffic Control:
• Train Movement Regulation: Managing the movement of trains by controlling signals
based on the availability of tracks, avoiding congestion.
• Speed Control: Regulating train speeds based on track conditions, curves, gradients,
and station approaches.
3. Communication:
• Inter-Station Communication: Establishing effective communication between
stations and trains for transmitting signals, commands, and emergency information.
• Signalling Equipment Communication: Ensuring proper communication between
various signalling devices and control centres.
4. Power Supply Coordination:
• Power Management: Coordinating signalling systems with the electric traction power
supply to ensure uninterrupted train operations.
• Backup Systems: Having backup power systems in place to maintain signalling
operations during power outages or faults.
5. Standards and Compliance:
• Adherence to Standards: Ensuring that signalling systems comply with national and
international safety standards to maintain interoperability and reliability.
• Regular Maintenance: Implementing routine checks and maintenance of signalling
equipment to prevent failures and ensure continuous functionality.
6. Integration with Traction Systems:
• Compatibility: Ensuring compatibility between the electric traction and signalling
systems to maintain synchronisation and avoid conflicts.
 7. Training and Personnel Competency:
• Training Programs: Conduct training sessions for railway personnel to operate and
maintain signalling systems effectively.
• Skill Development: Ensuring the competency of personnel in handling emergencies
and utilizing signalling systems optimally.
8. Technology Upgradation:
• Innovation and Upgradation: Embracing technological advancements to enhance
signalling efficiency, like implementing automation or digital systems for better
control and monitoring.

 6.2 Types of signals, track circuits

Types of Signals:
1. Semaphore Signals:
• Traditional mechanical signals with rotating arms indicating different aspects (like
clear, caution, danger) by their position.
• Often used historically, gradually being replaced by more modern signal systems.
2. Colour Light Signals:
• Signals that use coloured lights (typically red, yellow, and green) to indicate different
aspects.
• Red: Stop, Yellow: Caution, Green: Clear.
3. Multi-Aspect Signalling:
• Signals that have multiple lights or aspects within a single signal unit, allowing for more
nuanced indications.
• Can display various combinations of lights to convey different messages regarding
speed, route, or track conditions.
4. Automatic Block Signalling:
• System where signals are automatically controlled based on the presence of trains in
a given section of track.
• Ensures safe distances between trains by maintaining block sections and regulating
train movement.
Track Circuits:
1. Occupancy-Based Track Circuits:
• Detects the presence of a train occupying a particular section of track.
 • When a train is present, it sends a signal to the control system indicating the track's
occupancy.
2. Axle Counter Circuits:
• Counts the number of axles passing a specific point to determine the presence or
absence of a train.
• Provides accurate information about train movement and location within the track
circuit.
3. Track Circuit Interlocking:
• Integrates track circuits with signalling systems and interlocking systems.
• Helps in coordinating signal aspects and track occupancy, ensuring safe train
movement and preventing conflicting movements.
4. Insulated Rail Joints:
• Used to divide the track into sections for track circuits.
• Helps in creating electrical isolation between different track segments for effective
functioning of track circuitry.
Application in Electric Traction:
In electric traction systems, these signals and track circuits work cohesively to regulate train
movement, ensure safe distances between trains, and provide critical information to control
centres. They are integrated with the traction control systems to facilitate efficient and safe
operation of electric trains.
By utilizing these signalling and track circuit technologies, electric traction systems can
manage trains, control speeds, prevent collisions, and ensure overall safety and efficiency in
railway operations.

 6.3 Advantages of remote control Systems,

Remote control systems offer several advantages in the context of electric traction, enhancing
the efficiency, safety, and operational capabilities of the railway network:
Advantages of Remote Control Systems in Electric Traction:
1. Enhanced Safety:
• Real-time Monitoring: Remote systems enable continuous monitoring of train
movements, tracks, and signalling systems, allowing prompt responses to any
anomalies or emergencies.
• Automated Safety Protocols: Remote control systems can automate safety
procedures, such as implementing speed restrictions or emergency braking, to prevent
accidents.
2. Improved Efficiency:
• Optimized Train Operations: Remote control allows for better management of train
schedules, track utilization, and resource allocation, reducing congestion and delays.
• Remote Diagnostics and Maintenance: Monitoring systems remotely enables
proactive maintenance, identifying issues early, and reducing downtime for repairs.
3. Centralized Control:
• Central Command Center: Remote systems enable centralized control, allowing
operators to manage multiple aspects of the rail network from a single location,
streamlining decision-making processes.
• Consistent Operations: Centralized control ensures uniformity in signalling, track
usage, and train movements across the network.
4. Flexibility and Adaptability:
• Remote Switching and Routing: Operators can remotely control switches and routes,
adjusting them in real-time based on traffic conditions or emergencies.
• Adaptive Scheduling: Remote systems allow for dynamic adjustments to train
schedules, accommodating unexpected changes or optimizing routes for efficiency.
5. Integration with Automation:
• Integration with Traction Control: Remote systems can be integrated with traction
control systems, allowing for coordinated control of train movements and power
distribution.
• Automation Support: They support the implementation of automated systems for
certain operations, enhancing precision and reducing human error.

6. Data Analytics and Decision Support:

• Data Collection and Analysis: Remote systems collect vast amounts of data on train
movements, maintenance needs, and track conditions, facilitating data-driven
decision-making and predictive maintenance.
• Decision Support Tools: Operators can use advanced analytics and tools to make
informed decisions about scheduling, maintenance, and resource allocation.
7. Cost Savings and Sustainability:
• Resource Optimization: Efficient operations facilitated by remote control systems
lead to reduced energy consumption and maintenance costs.
• Environmental Impact: Optimized operations contribute to lower emissions and a
more environmentally sustainable rail network.
 Implementing remote control systems in electric traction not only improves safety and
operational efficiency but also lays the groundwork for the integration of future technologies,
enhancing the overall effectiveness of the railway system.

 6.4 Equipment and network Metro rail-supply systems,

advantages, and schemes in India.

In the context of metro rail systems in India, the equipment and network supply systems are
crucial components that contribute significantly to the functioning and efficiency of the metro
rail networks. Here's an overview:
Equipment and Network Supply Systems in Metro Rail:
1. Rolling Stock:
• Advantages: Modern metro rail systems rely on specialized rolling stock (trains)
designed for urban transport. These trains are electrically powered, efficient, and
designed to handle high passenger volumes.
• Schemes in India: Various metro projects in India have procured rolling stock from
both domestic and international manufacturers. Companies like Alstom, Bombardier,
and Siemens have supplied rolling stock for metro systems in cities like Delhi, Mumbai,
Kolkata, and Bengaluru.
2. Signalling and Control Systems:
• Advantages: Advanced signalling systems ensure safe and efficient train operations,
manage train movements and maintain safe distances between trains.
• Schemes in India: Indian metro systems have adopted modern signalling systems,
including Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) and Automatic Train Control
(ATC). Companies like Thales, Siemens, and Alstom have been involved in supplying
signalling technology for Indian metro projects.
3. Traction and Power Supply:
• Advantages: Efficient traction and power supply systems are critical for electric
traction in metro networks, ensuring continuous power for train operations.
• Schemes in India: Metro rail systems in India utilize various traction systems such as
third rail, overhead catenary, or a combination based on specific project requirements.
Domestic companies like Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) and international
firms like ABB, Siemens, and Alstom have been involved in supplying traction and
power systems.
4. Station Equipment and Infrastructure:
• Advantages: Well-equipped stations with modern amenities and efficient
infrastructure contribute to passenger comfort, safety, and accessibility.
 • Schemes in India: Indian metro stations are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities,
including escalators, elevators, platform screen doors, and advanced security systems.
Companies both from India and abroad have contributed to station equipment supply,
including Toshiba, Schindler, and Otis.
5. Track Infrastructure and Maintenance Systems:
• Advantages: Robust track infrastructure and maintenance systems ensure smooth
train operations and reduce downtime for maintenance.
• Schemes in India: Various companies have supplied track infrastructure components
such as rails, sleepers, switches, and maintenance machinery to Indian metro systems.
This includes companies like Tata Steel, L&T, and Voestalpine.

Advantages of Metro Rail Supply Systems in India:

• Efficient Urban Mobility: Metro systems contribute to reducing traffic congestion and
providing efficient, reliable transportation in densely populated urban areas.

• Environmental Benefits: Electrically powered metro systems help in reducing

pollution and carbon emissions.

• Economic Growth: Metro projects create employment opportunities and stimulate

economic development in the regions they serve.

• Technological Advancements: Adoption of modern equipment and systems in metro

networks fosters technological advancements and expertise in urban transportation.

The metro rail supply systems in India, encompassing rolling stock, signalling, traction,
stations, track infrastructure, and more, collectively contribute to building and maintaining
efficient and modern metro rail networks across the country.