Alstom has introduced a revolutionary Eurobalise, a safety-critical device that seamlessly integrates simplified ERTMS encoding functionality to cater to multiple use cases. This pioneering solution marks a significant leap forward in enhancing rail safety standards, specifically addressing the critical need for heightened safety during track maintenance. The user-friendly installation of this technology provides rail operators with a cost-effective proposition.
Bernard Belvaux, Alstom Benelux Managing Director, expressed the company’s commitment, stating, “Alstom is proud to introduce this game-changing super balise to the market. This innovation is in line with our commitment to advance rail safety with digital solutions to meet the evolving needs of the industry.”
The initial firm order for 50 units and 20-year maintenance services has been secured from Infrabel, the Belgian railway network operator, with the potential for expansion to 100 units. The production will involve engineering and manufacturing sites in Villeurbanne (France) and Charleroi (Belgium).
This cutting-edge solution, to be deployed by Infrabel for the first time, incorporates an automatic warning system designed to safeguard track workers effectively. By transmitting ‘STOP’ or ‘GO’ messages to the train automatically, it efficiently secures the work area.
In installations using a train control system level 1 with limited supervision (ETCS L1LS), the Eurobalise autonomously selects the appropriate message out of 16 possibilities and transmits it to the train in SIL4 (the highest Safety Integrity Level). The simplicity of installation, coupled with the integration of Eurobalise and encoder functions into a single product, offers customers a highly competitive solution.
Notably, this innovation addresses the crucial requirement for increased safety during track maintenance. By enabling operators to remotely control train movements, the system minimizes the risk of accidents and elevates overall safety standards.
The Eurobalise is a crucial component for data transmission, train positioning, and European Rail Traffic Management Systems (ERTMS) compliance. This advanced version, based on the proven Alstom Onvia Balise technology with over 400,000 units installed globally, is poised to redefine safety norms in the rail industry.