Locomote 100 Approved for Europe
15 November 2007
Akerströms in Björbo, Sweden met rigorous safety and quality requirement and was notified that Locomote 100—its new remote control system for train engines—is approved for launch in Europe. "Of course we're proud and delighted to acquire certification," says Lars-Olov Liss, CEO, "it's an achievement that positions us well for the future."
The Locomote 100 resulted from nearly seven years of development that Germany's Technischer Überwachungsverein (TÜV) constantly monitored and followed up.
"TÜV requirements are extremely high," says Liss. "Each component must be documented, and each selection must be motivated. In total, we're talking about more than 4000 documents and even more pages."
Locomote 100 acquired CENELEC's EN50239 certification (safety standard), which is a key to the European market.
SAFER AND MORE EFFICIENT WITH REMOTE CONTROL
Remote shunting is safer and more efficient than traditional shunting. Thanks to remote control, operators can stand in railroad yards and maneuver driverless trains using joysticks that are positioned on their bodies in carriers. Of course remote control is nothing new; many companies use Locomote 90, another type of remote control.
"Because Locomote 100 must be used in enclosed industrial areas and in public railroad yards, European safety standards are much more rigorous," says Liss. "For example, the Locomote 100 has a tilt switch so that the train stops if the operator happens to fall."
READY FOR EUROPE
Interest in the Locomote 100 is already great. Trenitalia, an Italian rail operator, will be the first to test the system.
"Soon, we'll launch it to a wider customer group," says Liss. "Many companies and organizations have contacted us, which is a good sign going forward."
