Alstom, the world leader in integrated transport systems, has completed the implementation of the new signalling system installed in the renovated Line San Martín Viaduct. This state-of-the-art electronic system makes it possible to handle all signalling on the six kilometres of brand-new tracks separating the stations of Palermo and Villa del Parque, and is responsible for the safe operation of the trains.
To provide a new signalling system for the entire new viaduct, Autopistas Urbanas S.A. (AUSA) contracted the services of Alstom. In this sense, the whole new system installed is totally suitable and compatible with the future electrification of the San Martín Line.
“It is important to highlight the Alstom Argentina team, because this was a different project for everyone. We were used to working inside the subway in tunnel activities, but the viaduct project was completely different because we faced especially the Covid-19 pandemic, adverse weather conditions and high-altitude work with a high risk, but we overcome all the obstacles we encounter. I also highlight the willpower, experience and leadership of this Alstom team to make the best decisions in the most adverse situations on the project, and always with a sense of urgency, “said Ernesto Garberoglio, Country Managing Director of Alstom Argentina.
Alstom began in 2019 with the mobilization and installation phase of equipment, and the installation of track 4 began in 2020, with its completion scheduled for March 20. And during the quarantine the commissioning was carried out: individual tests, integrated tests and validation of the installed system.
The scope of the work consisted of carrying out the design and development, installation, testing and commissioning of the new signalling system, maintaining the required safety levels, quality and availability for the installation of the new interlock on the five-kilometre stretch between the Palermo and La Paternal stations.
“This new system features a modern operating table in La Paternal, new electro-hydraulic machines for the movement of track changes, new signals with LED traffic lights and new audio frequency track circuits. In the future this will allow to improve the frequency between the trains, and the safety of the system is absolute both for the passengers as well as for all employees of Argentinian Trains working on the San Martín Line”, detailed Luciano Barbieri, Vice-President of Alstom Digital Mobility (ADM) for Latin America.
At the most intense moment of the installation activities, Alstom Argentina managed to employ a total of 50 workers, and from the start of the new signaling system will provide technical support that will extend for a period of 15 months.
The entire testing and commissioning process was carried out during the social, preventive and mandatory isolation implemented by the Covid-19 pandemic. Last March Alstom quickly implemented adapted work protocols, incorporating all preventive measures to protect its technicians. And this allowed the company never to interrupt its activities on the ground, always complying with the specific protocols for the health care of its workers.
