UK: Unipart Dorman to Supply Sheffields SuperTram Network

Image courtesy of Unipart Rail

Unipart Dorman have been selected to supply LED signalling to Sheffields new dual voltage SuperTram Network. Unipart, in conjunction with Carillion, have delivered five iLS (integrated Lightweight Signals) for the project.

It is first use of iLS on a light railway network. The signals have a record of 48 million fault-free operational hours over the last ten years.

Network Rail Approved

Network Rail recently approved the units as self cleaning , which enables further savings. The iLS also benefits from a very fast installation time as little as 20 minutes, saving money as well as time.

This also means that they promote safety ensuring that workers do not spend long on the tracks to install the units, and also that they require no cleaning maintenance means they promote worker safety.

Sheffield SuperTram Network

The Sheffield SuperTramproject, which includes electrifying the line between Sheffield and Rotherham to 750 V, delivering tram-train platforms at Rotherham Central and Parkgate,re-profiling the Supertram network and building the Tinsley Chord, which is a 160m link between the light rail network connecting it to the main train line.

Vossloh will supply new dual voltage tram-trains which will run beneath both the750 V Supertram catenary and the standard 25 kV on the rail network.Unique to trams, the vehicles will feature main line signalling and protection systems TPWS and GSM-R.