RSSB research into the maximum current limit at standstill - Supplier Engagement Day

RSSB, on behalf of the rail industry, is seeking to understand ideas and capability to undertake research into finding the maximum current that can be specified for 25 kV OLE and 750 V dc third rail at a standstill to charge batteries. Description This notification is to invite interested parties to attend a supplier event on the 7thth August 2019. The Vehicle/Train Energy System Interface Committee (V/TE SIC) has identified the need to specify the maximum acceptable current limit when charging at a standstill, in order to facilitate the adoption of new battery technology on board trains. In order to meet the target of zero diesel trains by 2040, many stakeholders are looking at battery technology in order to facilitate this phase out. Infrastructure managers have been approached regarding the maximum current limit at a standstill in order to charge onboard batteries. Whilst interim guidance has been given, and some stakeholders are now pursuing bespoke charging solutions, there is a need to develop a harmonised set of rules that can be widely applied. Specified limits with rationale and guidance would enable the development of battery technology on trains around a standardised interface. It is envisaged that once limits are established, stakeholders on both sides of the interface will be able to design and specify their systems accordingly. The intention is that this research will comprise of laboratory testing of high currents applicable to 25 kV ac OLE and 750 V dc third rail.

We welcome suppliers' thoughts on developing ideas for the project to contribute to achieving impact for the industry. In the supplier session a discussion on the various aspects of the work will be facilitated and active participation from the attendees will be encouraged. This will act as an opportunity to: • understand the proposed research; • provide information regarding any pre-existing work suppliers may be aware of to inform project development; • support the understanding on the impact the research may provide to industry; • register interest in the research should RSSB decide to commission it for delivery.

Suppliers should come prepared to discuss the following: • Is there any pre-existing research or evidence for the challenges identified? • What structure could the project take to best enable a successful outcome? • What support would RSSB and the industry provide to support effective delivery? • What data sources are available to support the tendering and delivery? • Who are the key stakeholders that will need to be engaged? • What risks can you foresee for delivering the project? • What are the main technical challenges in delivering the work?

We would like to invite suppliers to an engagement day at RSSB's office on 07/08/19 14:30-16:00 to discuss and provide input into the scope of the project, identify risks and ensure that the resulting tender is both attractive to the market and allows suppliers to put forward innovative ideas.