Rapid Growth Project (RGP) 5 – Communications and Rail Systems
BHP Billition Iron Ore
Pilbara Region, Western Australia, Australia
Preliminary engineering study for Rapid Growth.
Calibre QuadR was engaged to complete the preliminary engineering study for Rapid Growth Project 5. This contract was extended to continue into selection and definition studies, and our team then continued with the detailed engineering and implementation phases.
270km of rail duplication
The scope of work involved more than 270km of rail duplication works, as well as a major upgrading of the signalling systems and complete replacement of the microwave transmission and analogue Very High Frequency (VHF) radio system.
Our team was responsible for replacing the existing signalling system that comprised fixed colour light signals as the primary system supported by an Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system. This system was replaced by an in-cab signalling system (ICSS) and improved ATP operation, which enabled the signals to be displayed to the driver on the upgraded drivers’ display in the locomotive cab. Full duplication of the asset protection system and level crossings were also undertaken.
The previous communications system was replaced with a high capacity fibre optic transmission system and digital (APCO 25) VHF radio system for train communications. High availability of the communications system was built into the overall design with the use of dual fibre optic cables and links to telecommunication carrier services for backup.
The existing Siemens train control system was also upgraded to reflect the new track arrangements and the enhanced signalling and communications systems.