On the right track

27 August, 2020

While the initial trial went well, with recorded relative humidity levels reduced from 70% to approximately 10%, Norgren was keen to develop a new solution which could also address the challenge of pressure drop during the compressor offcycle purge. Norgren worked to develop a new AMT integrated twin dryer, resolving the problem of the pressure drop, as one side of the twin chambers is purging at any given time during the compressor oncycle. This meant the air purging wasn’t occurring during the compressor off-cycle and that acceptable pressure levels could be maintained whilst the compressor was not running.

Furthermore, Norgren also designed, developed and supplied customised rail standard mounting options using CAD & FEA modelling for the AMT twin dryer system to fit the two different trains within Metro’s fleet, with final configurations designed in collaboration with the business’ Melbourne and Leeds sites.

An additional benefit delivered by the twin AMT solution came with installation speed. Thanks to the integration of control valves within the dryer assembly, and the bespoke mounting systems, there is no requirement for separate installation of key components which significantly reduces installation time.

Despite an original twin AMT dryer installation completion date of late 2020 across the entire 68 six-carriage Comeng fleet, efficiencies and simplicity afforded by the integrated design has meant that the full Comeng fleet will have the new solution well ahead of the original completion date. Adrian Thomson for Metro Trains, comments: “The fleet is undergoing a significant transformation and the cuttingedge air dryer technology will ensure we can continue to run these trains reliably on the Metro network. The AMT twin dryers are helping to maintain the performance of critical train equipment, including the brake systems, delivering a safer and more comfortable journey for our passengers.”

www.norgren.com/uk/en/expertise/rail