The Pendolino train has covered 20,000 kilometers on Polish tracks. On December 8, dynamic tests were concluded on the Central Rail Line (CMK), connecting Warsaw with Katowice.
As planned, on December 8, 2013, another stage of testing for the new PKP Intercity train was completed. For four consecutive weekends, the Pendolino ran on the CMK, between Psary and Góra Włodowska.
Specialists conducting the tests examined the operation of safety systems – the European Train Control System (ETCS) and RADIO-STOP. The train performed well during difficult weather, even when strong winds were blowing, it was snowing, and temperatures dropped below zero. However, the weather did not affect the tests themselves. The team of specialists successfully carried out the planned tasks at speeds of over 200 km/h.
During previous runs, a series of various tests were conducted, including speed tests. To obtain a safety certificate, it was necessary to reach 275 km/h, which is 10% above the operational speed of 250 km/h. During runs at such speeds, the measurements indicated a large safety margin, making it possible to increase it. Ultimately, the train reached 293 km/h. This is the highest speed achieved in the history of Polish railways.
The train was also tested for:
– vehicle-track interaction,
– pantograph, i.e., vehicle-catenary interaction,
– potential interference emitted to the network,
– electromagnetic field,
– internal noise,
– impact on the track,
– vehicle interaction with railway traffic control devices and axle counters,
– brakes.
The implementation of tests conducted by specialists from: the Railway Institute, Alstom, PKP Intercity, PKP Polskie Linie Kolejowe, and PKP Energetyka is proceeding according to schedule; the train has covered 20,000 kilometers so far without the slightest malfunction.
During the tests, PKP Polskie Linie Kolejowe checked the infrastructure, including the new railway surface, and PKP Energetyka checked the traction power supply system. In practice, the conducted tests showed that both the train and the infrastructure are ready for the start of regular Pendolino service on Polish tracks from December 2014. The gathered experience will be used during the implementation of investments on many other sections of railway lines.