2006 – July – Chadwick – TPWS – A Train Protection System for Regional Victoria

Marcus Chadwick BE (Elec), Dip Bus Mgt, MIRSE, MAIPM Asia Pacific Rail Until now, the maximum permitted train speed in Victoria has been 130 km/h. With the advent of the Regional Fast Rail project, train speeds up to 160 km/h will occur and in order to support this increase in operating speeds, a train protection system has been applied. TPWS was specified as the technology for the enforcement function of the Train Protection system after consideration of performance, cost and supply factors. This paper describes the development journey of the train protection system. From the selection and adaptation of the generic TPWS product through to its integration with the signalling system to form an effective train protection system. The paper identifies the objectives of the train protection function, highlights the differences between the UK application of TPWS and the Victorian application, details the engineering and signalling principles, and identifies the stakeholder consultation process adopted in delivering the train protection system.