Key facts about using connectised cable assemblies on trains - Gem Cable Solutions

1. Key facts about using connectised cable assemblies on trains Increased pressure on rail networks requires constant improvements for best possible fleet optimisation. As a result, the electrical systems that are used in trains are being constantly reevaluated to look for opportunities for improvement. One simple way to do this is to use connectised cable assemblies between the bogie traction motor and the inverter propulsion unit. These are some of the key facts you need to know about using connectised cable assemblies on trains. There are lots of benefits when it comes to maintenance. This comes from the fact that it is much easier to easily drop and disconnect bogies from vehicle bodies during maintenance where a connectised cable assembly is being used. As a result, the time it takes to perform maintenance of any kind is reduced and so is downtime. Replacing inverter or bogie motors also takes a lot less time. This means that fleet utilisation can be optimised with just this one, simple change. A connectised cable assembly is a lower cost option than hardwiring. Up front, the cost of using a connectised cable assembly is marginally higher than hardwiring – but after that it’s cheaper every time. That’s because of the time that is involved in dealing with hardwiring, such as disconnecting and reinstalling all connection points involved. If you’re using a connectised cable assembly instead then this makes the entire process much easier, faster and – consequently – cheaper too. Only the cable assembly needs to be dealt with, which can mean much lower labour costs and far fewer hours of unplanned downtime. Because connectised cable assemblies are pre-tested, when it’s time for a replacement, the old one is removed and the new one simply plugged in. Using cable assemblies is a space saving option. Where connectised cable assemblies are being used, wiring takes up a lot less space on the underside of the train carriage. Many of the modern designs for connectised cable assembly are created specifically to take up less space, laying flat against the underside of the train. The use of modular connectors also means that the space available is being much more cleverly used. These connectors allow for multiple discrete conections to be made within the space of a

2. single housing unit. That includes data, power and even optical connections, all of which can be integrated into the housing in a way that is designed to save space. Reliability is one of the major benefits. Today, connectised cable assemblies can be specifically designed for trains to ensure that they offer the ultimate reliability. They can handle up to 650 amp current requirements and also provide specific protection for the harsh environment on the underside of the train. Connectors like this also have screw locking mechanisms, which means they are ideally suited to environments where shock and vibration are a potential problem. These are some of the key facts about using connectised cable assemblies on trains. They are not only ideal for the rail environment but a key part of optimising fleet utilisation too. Find out more about our services in the rail industry Please visit: https://www.gemcable.co.uk/key-facts-about-using-connectised-cable-assemblies- on-trains/