Return circuit and earthing concepts
A solid foundation for reliable rail operations
We create return circuit and earthing concepts at the request of our customers. These concepts play an essential role in protecting against dangerous contact voltages and preventing stray current during normal operation or in the event of a fault. The concepts are created during the planning and implementation of systems to ensure that electrical currents are fed back to the power source in a coordinated manner (return circuit), and that no dangerous potential differences occur (earthing), and fault situations do not involve unnecessarily long turn-off times.
When and why are return circuit and earthing concepts created?
Return circuit and earthing concepts are created in the planning phase of new rail systems or when modernising existing systems. They are essential when it comes to
- meeting safety standards: they ensure that rail systems comply with national and international safety regulations;
- obtaining planning permission: as part of the planning approval procedure with the relevant authorities, return circuit and earthing concepts are a core component of the documents to be submitted for traction power projects;
- ensuring electromagnetic compatibility: they minimise interference with signalling systems and prevent electronic systems from being disrupted by electromagnetic fields;
- guaranteeing personal and system protection: they protect staff, passengers, and the surrounding infrastructure from electric shocks by discharging residual current safely and rapidly;
- improving corrosion protection: they prevent electrochemical corrosion on metallic components of the infrastructure that can be caused by stray current.
What are the advantages of return circuit and earthing concepts?
- Operational safety: the conducted return current and effective earthing help to increase the reliability of the rail infrastructure. Failures and hazards are kept to a minimum, which in turn improves overall availability.
- Infrastructure longevity: a correct earthing and return current system protects rail systems from premature ageing and corrosion.
- Protection against electromagnetic interference: the routing of return current in the conductors designated for it, guarantees uninterrupted operation of electronic control and communication systems, which is particularly important for modern, technologically advanced rail networks.
In summary, return circuit and earthing concepts play a fundamental role in the function, safety, and sustainability of rail operations.
