LRQA USA - Measure the difference

Electromagnetic compatibility

Interaction between the electrically complex systems used in the railway environment is a significant area of concern within the industry. Failure of compatibility can lead to system breakdowns and unreliability as well as having the potential to degrade safety.

How we can help

Our industry leading EMC engineers work closely with our safety and reliability specialists to help ensure potential EMC problems are identified and solved. Our services include:

• assessing compatibility between systems via analysis, calculation, modelling and testing

• preparing safety assurance strategies and plans to ensure that systems are electromagnetically compatible in a safety critical environment

• investigating problems with systems and their effect on both railway and non-railway systems

• preparing EMC management plans

• assessing the impact of EMC regulations on equipment design and operation

• specifying and managing EMC testing activities

• checking electromagnetic field levels for compliance with human exposure limits

• EMC hardening techniques

• acting as a recognised Competent Body authorised under article 10(2) of the European Commission Directive EMC 89/336/EEC.

What are the benefits?

An in-depth understanding of potential electromagnetic problems in the rail environment enables the development of realistic and effective solutions.

Recent projects

• We have prepared EMC safety cases, including EMC assessments, for electric trains operating on 750V dc and 25kV ac electrified lines in the UK.

• We have investigated the EMC impact of 25kV electrified lines on 1500V dc rolling stock on the Dutch Betuweroute and HSL rail links.

• We have prepared traction software upgrade safety assessments including EMC studies for Network Rail and London Underground Limited lines.

• We have conducted radio frequency and low frequency emissions measurements of rolling stock using conventional and novel techniques including time/frequency and 3D waterfall.

• We have modelled and analysed electromagnetic problems using circuit analysis, numerical methods and finite element analysis.