Adif has invested 12 million euros in completing the electrification of the Vizcaya metric gauge network
(31/03/2023)
This action will modernize the security and signaling installations, since the new system will allow the use of both tracks with full operability in both directions, thus speeding up circulation, improving exploitation and maximizing the capacity of the line.
The consortium formed by FCC Industrial and Infraestructuras Energéticas and Siemens Rail Automation will be in charge of installing the signaling system, called Banalizado Automatic Blocking, which has an execution period of 18 months.
The Banalized Automatic Blockade -operating on double tracks- will have identical signaling on both tracks and will maximize operation in both directions, thus speeding up circulation, especially in cases of incidents on one of the two tracks. This blocking system replaces the Double Track Automatic Blocking signaling system, which gives a preferential direction of movement and, therefore, somewhat restricts the capacity of the other track, which does not have the same signalling.
Banal Auto-Block
The installation project for this new Banalized Automatic Blocking signaling system also includes the renovation and modernization of the security installations associated with signalling, such as interlocks, train detection and protection systems, fixed and light signaling and integration into Centralized Traffic Control Center.
In addition to the contract to modernize the security facilities in the Bilbao-Zaramillo section, Adif has other actions to improve the V metric gauge network underway, such as the revision and updating works of the overhead contact line between the Aranguren and Karrantza and the Carranza substation, for the commissioning of the electrification of the section, with an investment of 3.7 million euros.
This action is added to the catenary improvement and installation works in the Callejo and Arroyo tunnels -carried out in the Carranza-Aranguren section, with an investment of 7.8 million euros, and to those that complete the electrification of the entire line , from Bilbao to Carranza.