TRACK TECHNOLOGY
Shaun Day, managing director of Promax Access Ltd, explains how his company is responding to changes in Network Rail’s product acceptance procedure.
R
ecent changes in the requirements and criteria for plant and equipment
to be accepted for use on the Network Rail infrastructure mean that anybody looking to supply or introduce new equipment must now clearly identify the unique benefits of the equipment proposed and demonstrate a requirement and specific need for that new equipment.
This process, which can be time consuming and at times daunting, forms part of the in-depth Network Rail product acceptance procedure. This is seen as a very positive way of driving development and design forwards, with the distinct aim of improving any new products launched within the rail industry.
This process, along with engineering acceptance compliance and testing, was recently successfully undertaken by Promax Access Ltd for the launch of their new Platform Basket RR14 EVO road-rail access platforms.
Promax Access had previously supplied the first purpose designed and built original Platform Basket RRW14 road-rail access platforms to the UK in 2003. These machines have experienced a successful seven years of working on the Network Rail infrastructure. Orders for further machines had been placed but they would have to meet the new strict criteria adapted for Network Rail product acceptance.
The new machines would be required to carry out very similar works to the original RRW14, but what would be the best way to achieve the improvements required?
The first step was to carry out research with the owners and operators of previously supplied machines. Valuable information was gathered on improvements that could be made on the new models and, just as important, on what should not be changed.
An extensive design process then took place to ensure that the new EVO model would not only meet all the current design and operational requirements of RIS 1530 part 2, but would actually exceed them. This
168 | rail technology magazine Apr/May 11
anticipates any future possible changes in these requirements.
The new design eventually incorporated over 30 major changes on the original RRW14, including the introduction of an independent rail wheel braking system, so the machine now has a total of eight independent brakes for maximum safety. It also has an automatic self levelling turret, which allows the machine to operate on a maximum 200mm cant, 300kg cage capacity, constant 4WD, heavy duty rail gear, simplified operating controls and an improved working height. The ability to travel under live OLE with a simplified lock out system and the RR14 EVO is also third and fourth rail compliant for improved versatility.
After successfully completing the NR product acceptance procedure and gaining engineering acceptance, over 25 units have now been supplied, and are actively working throughout the UK meeting the growing investment from companies involved particularly in overhead electrification works. Constantly looking
to improve the RR14 EVO, Promax are currently assessing the use of an ‘engine scrubber’, which can be attached to the existing main engine and will reportedly achieve 90% plus reductions in carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons, whilst also reducing noise levels. An alternative LPG auxiliary engine is also currently under assessment as an alternative to provide fume free and quieter working.
Promax Access were established in 1993 and have a vast experience of supplying a complete range of specialist and niche powered access platforms including com- pact tracked machines, ideal for use on fragile floors, poor terrain or where low ground pressures are required and also narrow enough to be driven through a standard door or gate opening. They also supply a range of versatile vehicle mounted access platforms and road towable, trailer mounted, platforms.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
T: 01226 716657 E:
info@promaxaccess.com W:
www.promaxaccess.com
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