A rail innovation competition has selected four companies whose cutting-edge technologies aim to accelerate track laying, rail welding, and cable installation during the construction of HS2.
The Department for Transport's (DfT) First of a Kind initiative, which seeks to improve cost efficiency and enhance value for money in the railway sector, has awarded these innovative firms a combined investment of over £650,000 to further develop their solutions.
Among the winning technologies is an advanced induction heating technique, which hopes to revolutionise rail welding by offering a safer, stronger, and faster alternative to traditional methods. The process also boasts enhanced fatigue resistance, which will contribute to the long-term durability of HS2's railway system.
Another key innovation selected is a sensor-based system for European Rail Traffic Management System cabling. The innovation works by attaching sensors to the railway's signalling infrastructure, which maintenance teams can then gain real-time insights into the exact location of each cable.
A tunnel cable-installing robot has also been selected. Impressing the panel with its ingenuity, the robot is an innovative solution which has the potential to significantly streamline the cable installation process, reducing the time and resources required.
Finally, a Panel Rectification System has impressed the judging panel with its ability to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of slab track installation. This technology has the potential to reduce the time spent on each panel installation by up to five minutes, contributing to a more streamlined and productive construction process.
Speaking on the selection of these four innovative firms, HS2 Ltd senior innovation manager Jon Kelly commented: "HS2's involvement in this year's First of a Kind competition marks a significant milestone as we prepare to transition towards the rail systems phase of the project.
“These four companies have demonstrated exceptional innovation, and we are excited to see how their solutions can contribute to driving productivity growth and efficiency in the rail systems sector, ultimately benefiting both HS2 and the wider rail industry."
The First of a Kind competition is a collaborative initiative between the Department for Transport, Innovate UK, and HS2 Ltd, aiming to foster innovation and improve rail infrastructure across the UK.
The selected companies will now embark on a six-month development phase, where their technologies will be rigorously tested and refined.
Photo Credit: HS2
