Background
A major railway operator in Germany is responsible for the daily transport of millions of passengers and extensive freight across the nation. The smooth functioning of this extensive rail network relies heavily on the continuous operation of signaling and communication systems, which are essential for ensuring both safety and efficiency in transportation.
In a high-stakes environment like this, power continuity is crucial. Signaling systems and communication networks are supported by industrial backup batteries to ensure continuous functionality, even during power outages. To maintain the reliability of these critical systems, an accurate and robust method for testing and monitoring backup battery systems was needed. This required an advanced battery testing and monitoring solution designed for accuracy and dependable performance.
Challenge
Operating a large network of signaling systems, communication equipment, and other critical infrastructure requires around-theclock functionality to ensure safe and timely train operations. Any power disruption, whether from outages or equipment failures, presents significant risks, potentially leading to delays, safety concerns, or logistical issues.
To mitigate these risks, an extensive network of backup batteries activates to support critical systems during power failures. However, monitoring the health of these batteries across numerous sites is a complex task. A solution was needed to accurately test battery health, confirm peak performance, and identify potential failures before they occur.
The existing approach relied on ohmic testing, which lacked the accuracy necessary to reliably assess the state of health of industrial batteries. To achieve greater precision, a system was required that could provide detailed insights into battery performance and present data in a centralized,
easy-to-access format.
Implementation
A comprehensive battery testing and monitoring solution from Franklin Electric was chosen to meet the specific needs of the railway’s extensive network. Part of the solution included the CELLTRON™ Advantage Digital battery tester which was selected for its accuracy and reliability in assessing industrial batteries.
Conductance Testing
This tester uses conductance testing, a more precise technique for evaluating battery health by measuring how effectively a battery can deliver power to essential systems. This accuracy was critical, as even minor battery performance issues could have significant operational consequences.
UNITE™
To complement the tester, UNITE™, a centralized battery management software, was also deployed to streamline data management and enable real-time monitoring of battery performance. The software integrates with the digital testers, allowing maintenance teams to oversee battery health across multiple locations, schedule maintenance based on actual battery conditions, and address potential issues proactively before they escalate into system failures.
WITH THE CELLTRON™ ADVANTAGE DIGITAL BATTERY TESTER THIS RAILWAY ACHIEVED:
Accurate Testing:
The conductance-based diagnostics provided by the CELLTRON™ Advantage delivers a highly accurate and reliable predictor of the battery’s end of life for the railway.
Improved Communication:
Built-in Wi-fi enables tester data to quickly and wirelessly be transmitted to and from the tester with no additional cards, cords, or hardware. The railway can also pre-program battery string configuration details on their laptop and wirelessly upload to the tester.
Faster Testing Times:
Testing is carried out in a matter of seconds simply by connecting the two test leads (either by clamp or probe) to the battery’s positive and negative posts.
Remote Battery Management:
The UNITE™ Battery Asset Management Database features advanced data visualization tools for CELLTRON™ Advantage Digital Battery Testers. UNITE™ enables users to upload battery test results to the database via Wi-Fi before leaving the site.
Conclusion
By using the CELLTRON™ Advantage Digital tester with UNITE™ Battery Asset monitoring, the railway has gained comprehensive visibility into the health of its critical backup power systems, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of its infrastructure. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of unexpected power failures, ensuring uninterrupted train operations and maintaining high safety standards for passengers and freight.
