Ensuring Railway System Interoperability Through Electromagnetic Compatibility Testing

To achieve the interoperability of a railway system, it is essential that rolling stock is compatible with control and signalling trackside equipment. The interoperability requirements for such equipment are defined in the technical document ERA/ERTMS/033281, published by the European Railway Agency.

One of the key requirements outlined in this document is the testing of rolling stock for electromagnetic compatibility with axle counters. Electromagnetic compatibility of rolling stock is determined by measuring magnetic field emissions under the train in the frequency range from 10 kHz to 1.25 MHz.

By complying with the magnetic field emission limits specified in ERA/ERTMS/033281, manufacturers ensure that the operation and detection capabilities of axle counters are not adversely affected by passing rolling stock.

The test method for measuring magnetic fields under rolling stock is defined in the standard EN 50592:2016. Emissions are measured using two 3-dimensional antennas placed alongside the rails:

• A low-frequency antenna covering the range of 10–100 kHz
• A high-frequency antenna covering the range of 100 kHz–1.25 MHz

Measurements are taken using a data acquisition unit and are subsequently evaluated.

We are pleased to announce that SIQ is now equipped to perform measurements in accordance with EN 50592:2016, in conjunction with ERA/ERTMS/033281, using an advanced FFT algorithm.

More information:
Žiga Selan
E-mail: ziga.selan@siq.si
Tel.: +386 1 4778 130