LocoTech-Signal Opens New Research Laboratory Supporting ECM S.p.A. Technology

March 18, 2021

Moscow, Russia - LocoTech-Signal has opened a new research laboratory in Moscow, Russia, to test the interlocking system (HMR9) developed by Italian company ECM S.p.A., a subsidiary of Progress Rail, A Caterpillar Company, for application in the Eurasia market. Creation of the laboratory aligns with LocoTech-Signal’s strategy to adapt ECM’s HMR9 computer based interlocking system to the conditions of the 1520 gauge. Customers will be able to implement Ctrl@Lock 400, a modern interlocking system based on ECM’s HMR-9 platform, for railway transportation projects.

In conjunction with wayside equipment used in Eurasia countries, the new research site will focus on testing the interlocking logic software and station configurations developed by LocoTech-Signal on the core operating system of ECM’s HMR9. The system will be adapted to customer standards and requirements, with subsequent testing of the Ctrl@Lock400 integrated application.

In 2021, Ctrl@Lock400 will be introduced at the Mailytogay railway junction, the Kyzylorda signaling and communication station. Supply of the Ctrl@Lock400 system will support modernizing signaling systems on railway stations in the Republic of Kazakhstan network.

Through conducting field tests with operating equipment at the facility, the laboratory provides an opportunity to reproduce and investigate abnormal situations in device operations. Additionally, the laboratory will be used to test interfaces on new types of devices and related systems, such as the Ctrl@Track100 microprocessor track circuit system.

Focusing on modern standards and innovative technologies, the laboratory is equipped with a stand for carrying out necessary tests. Based on the application, the stand consists of server and network equipment, central processors, object controllers (input/output, switch and signal), power supply equipment, wayside simulators and the subsystem HMI Ctrl@Screen developed by LocoTech-Signal.

“The accumulated experience of LocoTech-Signal specialists in preparing railway systems for operation in the 1520 space, combined with the openness of the HMR9 platform software, make it possible for the Ctrl@ Lock400 to be adapted in a short time,” commented Andrey Romanchikov, Managing Director of TMH JSC and Head of LocoTech-Signal LLC.“ Customers will have the opportunity to choose the most suitable configuration – from fully centralized, to the most decentralized, which is facilitated by the availability of equipment with an extended operating temperature range.”

ECM Managing Director Paolo Covoni added, “We are proud of our cooperation with LocoTech-Signal and believe the research laboratory will be a success for both companies. Combining our state-of-the-art HMR9 system technology with the experience of LocoTech-Signal in delivering railway solutions will provide innovative and effective solutions for customers.”

 

About Progress Rail

Progress Rail, a Caterpillar company, is one of the largest integrated and diversified providers of rolling stock and infrastructure solutions and technologies for global rail customers. Progress Rail delivers advanced EMD® locomotives and engines, railcars, trackwork, fasteners, signaling, rail welding and Kershaw Maintenance-of-Way equipment, along with dedicated locomotive and freight car repair services, aftermarket parts support and recycling operations. The company also offers advanced rail technologies, including data acquisition and asset protection equipment. Progress Rail’s deep industry expertise, together with the support of Caterpillar, ensures a commitment to quality through innovative solutions for the rail industry. Progress Rail has a network of nearly 200 locations across the United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, Italy, Australia, China, India, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom. For more information, visit progressrail.com and follow @Progress_Rail on Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn and Facebook.

 

About ECM

ECM develops and manufactures modern HMR9 microprocessor interlocking systems and locomotive security systems (including SCMT and SSC systems for Italian railways, wayside and onboard equipment ERTMS / ETCS Level 1). The company also manufactures power supply devices, LED traffic lights, axle counters, remote control and diagnostic devices, as well as other equipment for railways.

 

About LocoTech-Signal LLC

LocoTech-Signal LLC is a Russian group of technology companies that creates digital train control systems for urban, industrial and mainline transport. The company leads the development of solutions aimed at improving traffic safety, traffic capacity and railways automation.

 

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Progress Rail Contact:

Amy Everett, Communications Director

+1-256-505-6749; aeverett@progressrail.com

 

LocoTech-Signal LLC Contact:

Natalia Kononenko, PR & Communications Director

+7-926-870-81-20; natalia.kononenko@locotech-signal.ru