Preventing catenary rupture
Most trains today run on electricity and are supplied with power by overhead line systems. While the train is in motion, the so-called pantograph permanently slides against the overhead line, mostly made of copper, with a certain contact pressure. In the long run, the overhead contact line wears out, threatening to break – with potentially fatal consequences. Therefore, overhead contact wires need to be replaced as soon as they have fallen below a specified thickness. Railway companies therefore check the contact wire thickness at regular intervals – if possible quickly and efficiently in regular operation.