This project is scheduled to kick off in early 2019 with stakeholder meetings and workshops before gathering empirical field data for field integrated overhead wire temperature monitoring device/s to be used to improve, calibrate and validate the models used by all rail operators for predicting the temperature of overhead contact wire systems in electrified railways.

The project focuses on utilising Commercial Off-the-Shelf (COTS) hardware and measurement method/s allowing for both contact or non-contact solutions. In addition to the temperature measurement, ambient weather conditions will also be extensively logged and correlated (including air temperature, humidity, solar radiation and wind speed/direction).

The project outputs will be utilised throughout the project life cycle to review, validate and improve existing rail operator temperature algorithms for model enhancement and reassurance for the changing future. The project will utilise the extensive expertise and in-kind contributions of various key ACRI participants including Metro Trains Melbourne.