ECUC · Eddy CUrrent Brake Compatibility

The ECUC (Eddy-Current Brake Compatibility) project's objective is to prove that linear eddy-current brake (ECB) is a very effective and applicable solution for increasing the braking capacity of new high speed trains and solving the concerns raised by infrastructure managers by proposing concrete and realistic solutions to overcome the drawbacks that ECB have experienced on some lines.This proposal is submitted in answer to call SST.2012-2.5.1 Rail System Interoperability. ECUC establishes a work plan to demonstrate the technical feasibility of braking systems with eddy current brakes, independent of adhesion conditions, and to clarify the interaction of ECB with track and trackside equipment. In addition a new generation linear eddy-current brake will be designed and a study of electromagnetic incompatibilities and critical thermo-mechanical parameters will also be carried out. As a result, ECUC will propose new designs and engineering and operational guidelines for ECB and signalling equipment, and it will define Technical Recommendations, input for revisions of Technical Specifications for Interoperability.The strategy for the dissemination of ECUC benefits from input from the ECUC Advisory Group and a wide dissemination strategy towards UNIFE. ECUC addresses the main stakeholders in the European railway sector using various communication and diffusion tools.The impact of ECUC embraces the terms safety, interoperability and economy, and is addressed to the main stakeholders in the European railway industry. The medium-sized ECUC consortium is formed by CEIT (S), KNORR-BREMSE (D), ALSTOM (F), SNCF (F), DEUTSCHE BAHN (D), NETWORK RAIL (UK), UNIFE (B) and FRAUSCHER (AUT). The proposal describes the consortium's strategy in order to guarantee highly efficient coordination. This alliance offers unique advantages in terms of technical competence, complementary representation of all the key players, quality assurance and research orientation.