MGC Solutions: WA Rail Tech Innovations for Safety, Efficiency

MGC Solutions: A Quiet Achiever Powering Western Australia’s Rail Future

In the bustling world of railway infrastructure, some companies prefer the hum of efficiency to the blare of publicity. MGC Solutions, a Western Australian firm, is a prime example. Quietly and effectively, they’ve been instrumental in delivering a range of critical rail projects, from essential power upgrades to the complex signalling systems. This article will explore MGC Solutions’ recent successes, specifically their significant role in the Perth Level Crossing Removal Project and the innovative track monitoring solutions they’re pioneering, demonstrating their commitment to safety, efficiency, and future-proofing the rail network. The “Who” is MGC Solutions, the “What” is their significant work on the Level Crossing Removal Project and their innovative track monitoring systems, the “When” is the recent completion of the level crossing project and the ongoing development and trials of their new technologies, the “Where” is primarily Western Australia, with expansions planned, the “Why” is to improve safety, efficiency, and reduce delays, and the “How” involves their highly skilled workforce and cutting-edge technology.

Level Crossing Removal: A Signalling and Fibre Optics Triumph

The Perth Level Crossing Removal Project, a Metronet initiative, represented a major undertaking to remove six level crossings along the Armadale Line, dramatically improving traffic flow and safety. MGC Solutions played a crucial, integral role in this project, managing the signalling and fibre works. Their scope included installing overhead line equipment (OLE), wayside signalling, and the full cable network. This encompassed hauling over 40 kilometres of signalling and fibre cables, installing essential wayside signalling equipment, such as breakback signals and axle counters, and implementing automatic train protection systems. The company managed the entire process from the civil installation of foundations to the final termination and testing of the equipment. MGC Solutions’ meticulous planning and execution, coupled with their extensive experience, resulted in the successful delivery of the project on time and under budget. This project also saw the construction of new, modern elevated stations at multiple sites and the closure of Welshpool Station, further streamlining operations.

Innovations in Track Maintenance

MGC Solutions is dedicated to research and development, focusing on enhancing the safety and efficiency of the rail industry. One key area of innovation is their track monitoring systems, specifically their eLMS (Embedded Longitudinal Stress Management System) and their Broken Rail Detection System. The eLMS system is a standout in stress monitoring as it considers ambient temperature and the dynamic stress caused by moving trains, allowing for real-time monitoring of track integrity. The system uses strain gauges physically attached to the track, providing crucial data that can alert maintenance teams to potential issues before derailments occur. The system’s key advantage comes from the ability to monitor high-impact areas. The eLMS has undergone trials on the Metropolitan Rail Network in Western Australia with positive results, showcasing the benefits the system can provide to network partners.

Broken Rail Detection: A Cutting-Edge Safety Solution

Another significant innovation from MGC Solutions is their patented broken rail detection system. This system offers real-time monitoring, analyzing the voltage sent back to the system to detect anomalies. Capable of monitoring 3-5 kilometres of track simultaneously, it identifies clean breaks that may occur between train movements. This technology is particularly valuable in sidings and sections of mainline track with less constant monitoring. This system’s installation requires a minimum shutdown period to implement, keeping crews out of harm’s way. The system is also powered by solar energy and is an IoT (Internet of Things) device that can communicate using multiple connection technologies. The system’s self-learning capabilities allow it to build a robust image of the monitored rail, with the ability to identify small anomalies. MGC Solutions is planning a new trial of their Broken Rail Detection Systems this winter on one of the Metro Trains lines on the East Coast.

Project Management and Workforce Excellence

MGC Solutions attributes its success not only to its technological advancements but also to its skilled workforce and efficient project management capabilities. Boasting the largest full-time signalling workforce in Western Australia, the company has a deep pool of 140 fully trained and experienced signalling professionals. This expertise allowed them to manage the level crossing removal projects with precision. The company also prioritizes its project management abilities, and is proud of the performance of all members of their workforce.

Conclusion

MGC Solutions has emerged as a vital player in Western Australia’s rail infrastructure landscape. Their pivotal role in the Perth Level Crossing Removal Project, combined with their pioneering track monitoring solutions, underscores their commitment to improving rail safety and operational efficiency. Their advancements in the eLMS and Broken Rail Detection systems hold the potential to significantly reduce delays, minimize derailment risks, and improve overall infrastructure integrity. The company’s focus on innovation, combined with a strong, locally-based workforce, positions MGC Solutions to continue its significant contributions. The successful trials and planned expansions suggest a bright future for the company and their ability to support ongoing efforts to modernize rail networks. These achievements reflect a commitment to excellence and signal a promising trajectory for this quiet achiever in the ever-evolving railway sector.