Türkiye High-Speed Rail: ROCS Advancements & Future Trends

Türkiye Takes a Giant Leap Forward with First Rigid Overhead Catenary System for High-Speed Rail

In a landmark move poised to revolutionize Türkiye’s high-speed rail infrastructure, Alstom and RESA A.Ş. have inked a contract to supply the nation’s first rigid overhead catenary system (ROCS) for the Halkalı–Kapıkule high-speed rail line. This project, focusing on the Halkalı–Ispartakule section, signifies a major investment in upgrading rail links between Türkiye and Europe. The system will provide the electrical power needed to run the high-speed trains. Who: Alstom and RESA A.Ş.. What: Contract signed for the first ROCS. When: Not explicitly stated but recent. Where: Halkalı–Ispartakule section of the Halkalı–Kapıkule high-speed rail line, Türkiye. Why: To boost transportation capacity and connectivity. How: Using Alstom’s ROCS technology. This article will delve into the specifics of the project, exploring the technical advantages of the ROCS, its strategic importance, and its implications for the future of Turkish rail transport.

Revolutionizing Tunnel Infrastructure

The Halkalı–Kapıkule high-speed rail line, spanning 229 kilometers, will be a game-changer for the Istanbul region. A significant portion of the track will run through tunnels, demanding a robust and space-efficient power delivery system. The ROCS is ideally suited for this. The system will be installed in a double-track tunnel, each approximately 7 kilometers long and 8.3 meters wide, running under local neighbourhoods and Küçükçekmece Lake. The compact design of the ROCS makes it particularly suitable for these constrained environments, as well as its low maintenance requirements and high fire resistance. Unlike traditional overhead lines, rigid catenary systems consist of a solid conductor, ensuring reliable power supply even in tight spaces. The manufacturing of the catenary components is underway at Alstom’s Valmadrera facility in Lecco, Italy.

Boosting Capacity and Connectivity: Strategic Importance

The Halkalı–Kapıkule high-speed rail line is more than just an infrastructure upgrade; it’s a catalyst for economic growth and international trade. By increasing passenger traffic by 80% and freight movement by 45%, the project promises to alleviate congestion and streamline the movement of goods and people. The line’s integration into the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) underscores its strategic importance, connecting Türkiye to the broader European rail network. This enhances regional economic development and facilitates smoother international trade flows, contributing to Türkiye’s role as a key transit hub.

Technical Advantages of Rigid Overhead Catenary Systems

Alstom’s ROCS technology employs an aluminium conductor profile combined with a copper contact wire. This design delivers efficient power transmission while minimizing lifecycle costs. The system’s adaptability across various voltage types and its compatibility with existing rail lines make it a versatile solution for modernizing rail infrastructure. The use of a rigid system is particularly advantageous in tunnels, where space is at a premium, and safety considerations are paramount. The ROCS will also mark the first time that a rigid overhead catenary system is applied in a high-speed rail context within Türkiye. The use of a rigid system is not just a technological upgrade but a strategic choice, optimized for the specific demands of high-speed rail and the challenging tunnel environment.

Collaboration and Local Expertise

The project highlights the synergy between Alstom’s global expertise and RESA A.Ş.’s strong local presence. Kerem Bugay, Managing Director of Alstom Türkiye, emphasized the company’s long-standing commitment to Türkiye’s railway sector, stating that the collaboration with RESA A.Ş. represents a significant milestone. Serkan Atalar, Managing Director of RESA A.Ş., expressed pride in being the first company in Türkiye to implement a rigid catenary system for high-speed rail, highlighting the enhanced partnership with Alstom. The project is a testament to the collaborative approach required to deliver complex infrastructure projects, bringing together international expertise and local knowledge.

Conclusion

The adoption of a rigid overhead catenary system on the Halkalı–Kapıkule high-speed rail line represents a pivotal advancement in Türkiye’s rail infrastructure. This project, driven by the collaboration between Alstom and RESA A.Ş., showcases the advantages of ROCS technology in confined spaces such as tunnels, and emphasizes its ability to improve power delivery and reduce long-term operating costs. The anticipated increase in passenger and freight capacity, coupled with the line’s integration into the TEN-T, is poised to stimulate economic growth and foster stronger connections with Europe. This pioneering initiative not only signals a technological leap forward for Türkiye but also underscores the nation’s ambition to modernize its railway network. The success of this project will likely pave the way for further adoption of rigid catenary systems in similar high-speed rail projects throughout Türkiye, setting a new benchmark for efficiency, reliability, and safety in railway electrification. Future projects will likely leverage the expertise and experience gained from this critical first step, cementing Türkiye’s commitment to advanced rail transportation.

Company Summary

Alstom: A global leader in rail transport, Alstom provides a comprehensive range of products and services, from trains and signaling systems to infrastructure and digital mobility solutions. With a history spanning over 70 years in Türkiye, Alstom has a long-standing commitment to the country’s rail development, bringing innovative technology and expertise to numerous projects worldwide.

RESA A.Ş.: A Turkish company specializing in railway infrastructure, RESA A.Ş. has a strong presence in the sector. They have been serving the Turkish railway sector for many years and possess significant local expertise. RESA A.Ş. plays a key role in project execution.