Sydney Waratah Trains
The Sydney Trains, commonly known as the Waratah trains, are double-decker electric multiple units operating across the Sydney Trains network. Delivered through a Public Private Partnership (PPP) between Downer EDI Rail and Hitachi for Reliance Rail, the initial order of 78 trainsets marked the largest rolling stock procurement in Australia’s history.
Challenge
The consortium were looking for a Train Control & Managment System (TCMS) that would enable them to build the world’s first fully Ethernet-based trains for Sydney Trains. The fleet consisted of 79 double-decker EMUs comprising 632 cars in total and were classified as A sets.
An order for 24 additional trains with updated technology was placed in December 2016. These are classified as B sets, or colloquially as Waratah Series 2 trains.
Project duration
A sets: Delivery commenced in July 2011 and was completed in June 2014.
B sets: The delivery of the first order of sets began in September 2018 and was completed in June 2019, while a second and final order of a further 17 sets began in September 2020 and was completed in June 2021.
Scope
EKE-Electronics supported the project with comprehensive services, including assembly, integration, commissioning, and training, both remotely and on-site. Documentation was provided as required and continuously updated based on customer feedback. EKE was also responsible for conducting safety-related analysis and preparing the corresponding documentation. Additionally, Life Cycle Cost (LCC) analysis and reliability prediction calculations were carried out by EKE. The company also provided full RAMS (Reliability, Availability, Maintainability, and Safety) documentation.
Solution
- The solution for both trainsets included:
- EKE-Trainnet® Train Control and Management System (TCMS) which included an Ethernet Train Communication Network.
- Event Recorders with Rugged Memory
- 12.1” Touch Screens for drivers display
- Radio Link interface
- PLC Application for network, contol of systems, and monitoring and diagnostic capabilities
- Portable System Tester for system configuration and debugging
- Train Inspection Program for extracting and analysing event recorder data.
Benefit
Sydney’s Waratah Trains were the world’s first fully Ethernet-based trains, powered by the EKE-Trainnet® Ethernet system, which ensured redundancy and simplified future upgrades. This cutting-edge solution has played a key role in delivering an impressive 99.6% fleet availability, while also significantly improving security, safety, and accessibility for passengers.
EKE-Electronics’ TCMS platform has been instrumental in maintaining this high level of reliability. Its open data policy allows Downer to seamlessly access essential metrics and data points via the EKE-Trainnet® TCMS. This data drives enhanced operational efficiency and asset intelligence through Downer’s RTS Digital platform, powered by TrainDNA, enabling actionable insights that further optimise fleet performance.
The strong partnership between EKE and Downer continues to thrive, ensuring long-term success and innovation.
EKE was able to create a One Stop Shop experience by providing both the software and the hardware needed. EKE is a reliable company that offers life-time support for proven technology.
