Xi’an Metro, Shaanxi: A Case Study in Urban Rail Development

This article examines the planning, construction, and technological integration of the Xi’an Metro system in Shaanxi, China. The project serves as a compelling example of large-scale urban rail development, highlighting the complexities of financing, engineering, and technological implementation in a rapidly growing city. We will explore the evolution of the Xi’an Metro from its initial planning stages to its current operational status, focusing on the key technological choices and the collaborative efforts of various international and domestic companies. The analysis aims to provide valuable insights into the challenges and successes encountered during the project, offering a practical case study for future metro development projects in similar contexts, particularly in rapidly urbanizing areas of developing nations requiring efficient and sustainable transportation solutions. The article will also examine the economic and social impacts of the Xi’an Metro system.

Project Planning and Financing

The Xi’an Metro’s development journey began in the mid-1980s with initial plans. A revised plan, encompassing six lines, was approved in 2006. Funding was secured through a significant loan facility of Yuan 13.1 billion (approximately $2.1 billion USD at the time) provided by a consortium of five financial institutions, with the China Development Bank’s Shaanxi Branch acting as the lead arranger. This substantial financial commitment underscored the city’s commitment to modernizing its transportation infrastructure.

Construction and Tunneling Technology

Construction commenced on Line 2 in September 2006, utilizing Earth Pressure Balance (EPB) shields for tunnel boring. This line, spanning 20.5 km and featuring 17 underground stations, opened in September 2011. Line 1, a 25.36 km line with 19 underground stations, followed, commencing construction in October 2008 and opening in September 2013. The tunneling for Line 1 involved ten Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs), including two 6.2m diameter Robbins EPBMs. China Railway 11th Engineering Bureau Group was the main contractor for Line 1 tunneling, with Robbins subcontracted for the supply of TBMs. The use of advanced TBMs like EPBMs, which minimize ground disturbance and ensure efficient excavation, were critical to the project’s timely completion. A 7km extension of Line 1 to Xianyang City was also planned.

Rolling Stock and Communication Systems

CNR Dalian provided the rolling stock. Line 2 utilized 132 stainless steel Type B mass transit vehicles, each accommodating up to 1,880 passengers and reaching a maximum speed of 80 km/h. Line 1 received 20 six-car Type-B metro trains. The communication system incorporated a cutting-edge 800MHz Tetra digital trunking system, enhancing safety and operational efficiency. This system comprised several subsystems, including a dedicated communication system, public security communications, and civilian communications. The transmission network leveraged Alcatel-Lucent 1662 SMC and 1660 SM Optical Multi-Service Nodes. The wideband wireless trunking supported various communication standards (GSM, CDMA, WCDMA, TD-SCDMA, and DCS). Alcatel-Lucent played a crucial role in establishing seamless mobile coverage across stations, tunnels, and trains.

Power and Traction Systems

The Xi’an Metro’s power system uses AC switching power distribution cabinets, transferring power from the grid to uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) to ensure reliable power to equipment. Alstom and Shanghai Alstom Transport Electrical Equipment (SATEE) supplied the Optonix traction equipment for Line 3, significantly impacting travel time. Chengdu CSR Tunnel Equipment provided earth pressure balance shields for tunneling operations. Shaangu was awarded the contract for providing ventilation systems for Lines 1 and 2.

Project Summary and Conclusion

The Xi’an Metro project represents a significant achievement in urban rail development. Its success is attributable to meticulous planning, secure financing, the adoption of advanced tunneling technology, the deployment of state-of-the-art communication and traction systems, and the successful collaboration of numerous international and domestic companies. The project’s phased rollout, starting with Lines 1 and 2 and progressing to Line 3, demonstrates a strategic approach to managing such large-scale infrastructure projects. While challenges were undoubtedly encountered, the project’s completion serves as a powerful example of effective urban planning and its ability to improve the lives of millions of commuters.

The Xi’an Metro system, with its advanced technology and efficient operations, has transformed urban mobility in Xi’an. The project’s overall success highlights the importance of careful planning, adequate funding, the use of cutting-edge technology, and effective collaboration amongst various stakeholders. The integration of diverse technological components, from advanced TBMs and communication systems to sophisticated rolling stock and power distribution networks, has been instrumental in creating a safe, efficient, and reliable metro system. The project’s positive economic and social impact is undeniable, creating jobs, boosting economic activity, and enhancing the city’s overall attractiveness. The lessons learned from the Xi’an Metro project offer invaluable guidance for future large-scale urban rail ventures worldwide. The seamless integration of the various technological components showcases the potential for creating truly effective and sustainable urban transport solutions.

Company Information:

• CNR Dalian: A leading manufacturer of rolling stock for rail transit systems.
• Robbins: A global leader in the design and manufacture of tunnel boring machines.
• Alcatel-Lucent: (Now part of Nokia) A major provider of telecommunications equipment and services.
• China Railway 11th Engineering Bureau Group: A large-scale construction company specializing in railway projects.
• Shaangu: A ventilation system provider.
• Chengdu CSR Tunnel Equipment: A manufacturer of tunnel boring equipment.
• Alstom: A multinational company operating in the field of railway systems, power generation, and grid.
• Shanghai Alstom Transport Electrical Equipment (SATEE): A joint venture between Alstom and a Chinese entity.