Page 48 - วิศวกรรมสาร ปีที่ 74 ฉบับที่ 4 ตุลาคม - ธันวาคม 2564

Flooding can cause problematic track sections when using Track Circuits for train detection. Axle Counters are
a reliable and easily integrated solution for these cases.
A solution for problematic track sections:

Axle Counters

In train detection, already a small number of problematic track sections can significantly affect
the operation of a network. Conversely, this means that solving such problems in a targeted
manner can make the whole system more reliable. Among the typical causes of problematic
track sections are impacts of water. These can range from flooded tracks to wet tunnels. In a
country like Thailand the factor of flooded tracks is especially important since there is a whole
rainy season due to the Monsoon from May to October.

This article describes modern axle counting systems as a reliable and cost-effective solution for
upgrading problematic track sections that have been equipped with Track Circuits so far. It
summarises the advantages of axle counting technology and compares it to Track Circuits.
Typical causes for problematic track sections are shown – from the already mentioned flooding
in the rainy season to rusty rails. The focus is set on the way to implement Axle Counters into
existing systems. As a conclusion, the article gives an outlook into the various possibilities and
potentials of Axle Counters for the Thai railway sector.

Benefits of modern Axle Counters
Reliable and fail-safe track vacancy detection plays a key role in control command and signalling
of railways. This information is crucial for interlockings and level crossings, but also for systems
like electrical turnouts operated on-site, automated by a target rail key control system.

Track circuit technology, invented 150 years ago, has been a proven solution for train detection
over a very long time. But factors like the continuously growing demands for higher availability,
more complex information and less trackside maintenance paved the way for Axle Counters.
Therefore, this technology for train detection is increasingly replacing Track Circuits on railway
lines of all categories, up to main lines. Primarily, a modern axle counting system provides
information on whether a defined track section is "free" or "occupied". But current solutions can
contribute much more to an efficient and smooth railway operation. Today, Axle Counters are the
most widely used train detection technology globally.
Frauscher axle counting systems consist of two parts: A reliable, trackside mounted wheel sensor
and the innovative electronics boards, housed inside a connection box. This design means that
there is no need of electronics near the track, being directly exposed to environmental impact in
the rainy season. As a result, even flooded track does not hinder uninterrupted railway operations.
Both in decentral and central architectures Frauscher doesn’t place sensitive electronics on or

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วิศวกรรมสาร ปีที่ 74 ฉบับที่ 4 ตุลาคม-ธันวาคม 2564