Railway Crossing Control System Solution

Challenge: Challenge: Ensuring the reliable operation of electronic railway crossing control systems in Mid & West Wales, while preventing theft and vandalism of essential equipment.

Background: In the early 2000s, many railway and road crossings across Mid & West Wales were operated manually, requiring personnel to physically manage barriers. To reduce costs and manpower, Wales and Borders Trains developed electronic control systems housed in small sheds along the Cambrian Coast railway line. These systems effectively automated the operation of signals and barriers, eliminating the need for manual intervention.

Initial Success and Challenges: The electronic control systems were successful initially, streamlining operations and enhancing efficiency. However, during a warm summer, the systems began to experience failures. Upon investigation, it was revealed that the CPUs inside the sheds were overheating due to the lack of proper ventilation, ultimately leading to system failures.

First Solution: Air Conditioning: To address the overheating issue, the decision was made to install air conditioning units in the sheds to maintain a suitable temperature and prevent CPU damage. This solution appeared effective at first, as it provided the necessary cooling and allowed the systems to operate smoothly.

Unexpected Setback: Theft and Vandalism: After a while, another wave of failures occurred. Upon closer inspection, it was discovered that the air conditioning units had been unscrewed, removed, or stolen from the sheds. This not only disrupted the operation of the control systems but also highlighted the vulnerability of the equipment to theft and vandalism.

Hafren’s Intervention: Hafren Fasteners provided a range of anti-tamper security fasteners, specially designed to tackle issues with unauthorised removal, theft and tampering ensuring the integrity of the control system equipment.