Train testing has started on the newly converted Southwest Metro line after extensive work to transform the 130-year-old former T3 Bankstown line to modern metro standards, as part of works on the Sydney Metro project.
This test was completed when train set TS 28 completed the inaugural 6.5-kilometre journey to Campsie Station in five hours.
When the extended metro line opens next year, this same journey will take just 11 minutes.
The inaugural journey kicks off a rigorous testing and commissioning program that will involve more than 6500 hours of train testing between Sydenham and Bankstown.
Under the control of an operator and with a team of rolling stock engineers on board monitoring progress, the train proceeded along the new section of track at a cautious speed of five kilometres an hour.
During the initial testing phase, the train will travel at a low speed under 25 kilometres per hour.
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During this period, the train will be manually controlled by an operator and pilot on board.
Tests to be completed at speeds under 25 kilometres per hour include a Car-Car Clearance Test’ to ensure all curves/turns are negotiated without issue, kinematic Envelope Testing which verifies the safe distance between sides of the train and the station platforms.
Platform screen door interface checks, mechanical gap filler tests, communications tests, including radio and static systems checks and testing a train under loaded conditions, where the train is filled with water containers to simulate a train filled with passengers will also be done.
The next phases will involve testing at higher speeds and a transition from manual to automated train operations.
Sydney Metro is Australia’s biggest public transport project, which will oversee the building, operating and maintaining a network of four metro lines, 46 stations and 113 kilometres of new metro rail.
The metro program includes the operational M1 Line and three projects under construction including the Southwest, West and Western Sydney Airport projects.
For more information, visit:www.sydneymetro.info/
