Work

Capacity evaluation of ERTMS/ETCS HTD and moving block

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This paper compares the capacity effect of different implementations of ERTMS/ETCS (European Rail Traffic Management System/The European Train Control System): Hybrid Train Detection (HTD) and moving block. This is done both on a conceptual level by looking at a scenario involving two trains, and for a simulated network. The effects are studied by modelling HTD and moving block in the simulation tool RailSys, looking at the performance indicators related to capacity: headway, capacity utilisation, and punctuality. The model uses existing infrastructure and a complete timetable. The results of the scenario with two trains show that similar results on headway can be achieved with HTD compared to moving block This is true even with relatively long virtual blocks of 500 m. The results from the simulated network show that various shares of trains with train integrity, as well as moving block, have a minor effect on the performance indicator punctuality. Moving block gives some improvements on capacity utilisation compared to HTD. However, by implementing shorter virtual blocks at sections of lower speed, it is possible to achieve results on capacity utilisation like that engendered by moving block.

Source: Journal of Rail Transport Planning & Management

DOI: 10.1016/j.jrtpm.2025.100506

Authors: Daniel Knutsen, Nils O.E. Olsson, Jiali Fu, Tomas Rosberg

Institutions: Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Swedish National Road and Transport Research Institute

Language: English

Topic: Railway Systems and Energy Efficiency

Subfield: Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,070