Loram has commenced the installation of ETCS (European Train Control System) digital in-cab signalling equipment onto a second Rail Grinder. This machine, the C44 Rail Grinder (vehicle C44-02), is undergoing the process at Loram's engineering facility located in Derby. This marks Loram's first ETCS fitment to be financed through the East Coast Digital Programme (ECDP).
This development follows the successful integration of Hitachi Rail ETCS equipment onto Loram's new RGC rail grinding unit earlier this year. The initial installation and commissioning of the ETCS system on the RGC machine, and its subsequent rollout to the C44 machine, are the result of close collaboration between Hitachi Rail, Network Rail, and Colas, the operator of the C44 grinder.
The fitment process for the C44 began in June this year, carried out by Loram’s engineering and installation teams based in Derby, with significant support from industry partners. Lee Tinney, managing director of Loram EMEA, expressed his satisfaction, stating, “Following successful introduction of ETCS to our RGC Rail Grinder I am delighted that we are now expanding our ETCS fitment programme to the C44 grinder fleet, three of which are deployed by NR to support track maintenance and management teams across the network.” He also extended thanks to the teams and partners involved, highlighting the cost-effectiveness and pace of the fitment.
Chris Hobden, programme director (ECDP) at Network Rail, commented on the progress: “We’re pleased to see continued progress from Loram, and partner collaboration, to deliver digital in-cab signalling to another on track machine. This pioneering work with grinders will provide valuable learnings for the OTM sector as a whole.” He added that progressing OTM fitment is crucial for the strategy to remove signals on the East Coast Main Line, aiming for a more reliable, capable, and safer railway.
Paul Maynard, VP mainline signalling at Hitachi Rail SRS UK, noted the momentum behind the UK's digital railway transformation. “The installation of ETCS on a second Loram rail grinder highlights the momentum behind digital railway transformation in the UK,” he said. “As the East Coast Digital Programme continues to progress, it is essential that engineering fleets are equipped to operate seamlessly within a digital signalling environment.” He emphasised Hitachi Rail's role in applying its digital signalling expertise across diverse rail vehicles.
The installation programme is set to include static testing at the RTC in Derby, followed by dynamic testing at NR's Test Track facility in Melton towards the end of the year. The C44-02 is scheduled for hand-back to Colas for operational deployment in early 2027. Following evaluation, a third Loram Rail Grinder (C44-03) will enter the ETCS fitment programme. Initially, C44-02 will operate in 'ETCS dormant mode' before activation of ETCS Level-2, as part of NR's planned signals-away programme on the southern part of the East Coast Main Line.
The successful installation on C44-02 marks a significant milestone in preparing Loram’s Rail Grinders for the evolving digital railway, demonstrating the benefits of close collaboration among all involved organisations.
