Network Rail approves Fugro’s RILA technology to model platform gauges

Network Rail has utilised RILA extensively on the British rail network since 2013 for a range of infrastructure projects; this approval for platform gauging allows engineers to make further use of the already comprehensive RILA dataset and opens the possibility for more detailed analysis to fully define the radii of curved platforms.

Fugro RILA collects absolute track position data and 3D point cloud data of the entire rail corridor whilst operating at line speed and, to date, has captured over 40 % of the British network. Platform gauging approval further enables Network Rail to use RILA data to support the introduction of new fleet and the ongoing replacement of rolling stock throughout the country. Using RILA for platform gauging will also significantly enhance Network Rail’s ability to achieve financial efficiencies within its 5-year delivery plan and positively contribute to their safety and environmental targets.

James Sweeney, Senior Engineer at Network Rail: “We are extremely excited about RILA’s potential for faster survey turnaround. RILA helps reduce the requirement for manual surveying, and the associated reduction in risk to staff is a clear benefit. We are always looking for new ways to continuously improve every stage of the gauging process and are keen to continue working with Fugro in the future to benefit from these innovations.”

Jeroen Huiskamp, Fugro Global Director Rail: “I would like to thank Network Rail for their continued support in adopting new technologies. The approval of Fugro RILA for platform gauging is testament to the benefits it provides in terms of improved safety levels and enabling gauging data to be delivered faster and significantly cheaper than conventional ground survey methods.”