The dismantling of the test system on track 2 at Opfikon station on June 8th 2026 marked the end of an era for our CR1 rigid overhead conductor rail system. In operation since 1989, it was still in good condition even after 37 years.
Our CR1 rigid overhead conductor rail was installed on track 2 at Opfikon station in 1989. It was used as part of a test line for the Museumstrasse underground station at Zurich main station. Given its good condition, the robust system could likely have been used for even longer. However, as part of the work needed to bring the covered Opfikon railway station into line with the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA), the installation of new CR4 rigid overhead conductor rail systems on tracks 1 and 2 was planned.
Efficient two-shift operation
The refurbishment of the overhead contact line in the covered section took three weeks and was carried out in two shifts. It included earthing work and test runs. The support structures had been staked out and drilled in advance, with the bolts being set in place. A total of 34 support structures were installed per track, and the rigid overhead conductor rails were set up in a single shift thanks to the lift module.
New NT cantilevers over one kilometre
Work was also carried out on the overhead contact line system in the uncovered areas at both ends of Opfikon station. Over a distance of one kilometre, we replaced the tubular cantilevers on the catenary system with new NT cantilevers. The work took place during night-time closures, with the tracks being cleared in time for normal rail services to resume the following morning.
All on schedule
All the work was completed on schedule. This is no mean feat given that the line between Zurich Oerlikon, Opfikon, and Kloten is a very busy and important commuter route in Zurich’s Glatt Valley.
We would like to thank everyone involved for their dedication and determination and our project partners for the great collaboration.
Track 2 in operation; freight train at the expansion joint