Eletech, Head of the International Design Centers of Elemaster, R&D division of the Group, continues to excel in railway engineering through advanced solutions that improve safety, efficiency and sustainability in rail transport. The SIL2 Hydrogen Cut-off Switch, also known as the Cut-off Switch, implemented in Italy’s first hydrogen train, is a crucial response to the critical challenges facing the industry.
Description of the SIL2 Hydrogen Disruption System
The SIL2 system is designed to respond promptly to abnormal accelerations during train operation. Using independent accelerometers, the system constantly monitors acceleration variations. When it detects an anomaly, it automatically closes the hydrogen supply valve, minimising risks and ensuring immediate response in emergency situations.
Operation and Main Features
The system is based on a dual-channel safety architecture with independent accelerometers and STM32 microcontrollers, ensuring a high level of reliability and operational safety. It is able to detect acceleration variations up to 12g, with a configurable bandwidth from 1Hz to 180Hz, adapting to different operating conditions. Key features include:
- Dual-channel safety architecture based on independent accelerometers
- Ability to detect accelerations up to ±12g with configurable bandwidth
- Hardware design according to EN 50129 SIL2
- Software design according to EN 50657 SIL2
- External Independent Safety Assessor (ISA) managed by TUV
- Certification according to EN 60529
Test and verification
The system has been rigorously tested to ensure reliability and safety standards. These include the development of a HIL (Hardware in the Loop) test bench to run functional tests in simulated environment, type testing and failure injection tests to verify system strength and robustness, and a code coverage analysis to ensure that all parts of the code have been tested. These tests ensure that the system functions properly under all operating conditions, minimizing the risk of failure.
Innovation and Sustainability in the Project
Thanks to a design approach based on sustainability and innovation with the SIL2 system for the interruption of hydrogen power, the development of an excellence in technological innovation in the railway sector has been reached. The system has been designed according to the Ecodesign guidelines, with particular attention to energy efficiency and reducing the overall environmental impact, as the device is designed to ensure durability and updateability.
Advanced Safety for the Future of Rail
The SIL2 system for the Cut-off Switch is a tangible example of technological innovation and railway safety. This solution not only protects passengers and personnel, but also promotes more efficient and environmentally sustainable management of energy resources in the rail sector. Looking ahead, Eletech will continue to develop advanced solutions that combine safety, efficiency and sustainability to address emerging challenges in rail transport.