As Delhi’s metro network is undergoing electrification and expansion, Siemens and Delhi Metro Rail Company require a futureproof and environmentally friendly solution for the overhead contact and catenary wires.

The solution came in the form of high-quality conducting employing advanced alloys developed by Lamifil, with proven efficiency, capacity and performance as a result.

With the electrification of Delhi’s existing metro system in 2015-16, its extension to include the Noida, Greater Noida region, in 2017-18 and more expansion projects, guaranteeing sufficient capacity for future growth, formed an essential part of this large-scale project. This is why general contractor Siemens placed strict performance criteria on all overhead contact, messenger and bridle wires.

In addition, the proposed solution had to be achieved with 100% cadmium-free products and come with fully documented performance standards and proven references.

Siemens opted for a complete solution from Lamifil, including upgraded 150mm² CuAg0.1 contact wires, with significantly higher capacity than standard copper or Cu-Etp contact wiring, and 70mm² messenger wire and 35mm² bridle wire, both in CuMg alloy instead of CuCd, ensuring reliable, long-lasting performance within a fully sustainable solution. As such, DMRC is the first provider in India to use advanced CuAg and CuMg-alloy conductors on its lines.

Lamifil’s total solution for the wiring of the DMRC project not only guarantees sufficient capacity for the entire network today but also allows for increased frequency and further expansion later down the track. What’s more, Lamifil met the required targets with 100% cadmium-free products, ensuring the technology will continue to make a positive impact well into the future.