Methodology for Studying the Reliability of Interlocking Devices in Bulgarian Railways
Source abstract
Abstract
Railway signalling systems must ensure the safe movement of trains and the reliability of the operation of their components is of utmost importance. One of the main components is the interlocking devices, which provide secure, safe and reliable interaction between points and signals in the controlled railway station area, and the safe movement of trains in this area depends on their proper functioning. In this article, the failures of the signalling devices in the Bulgarian railways over a three-year period (2020–2022) are analysed and processed according to a developed methodology. First, a statistical assessment of device failures is performed, comparing the number and duration of failures of different types of equipment, and calculating proportional ratios. Second, a reliability analysis is carried out and the reliability indicators are determined—mean time between failures MTBF, intensity of failure flow, availability and unavailability coefficients. The obtained results clearly demonstrate the need for determination of the complex reliability indicators. They give the clearest assessment of the state of the devices. If only a statistical assessment of failures and their duration is made or if only simple reliability indicators are calculated, erroneous conclusions can be drawn regarding maintenance and the need for modernization.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline
Research context
OpenAlex topics: Transportation Systems and Safety · Transport and Logistics Innovations · Technical Engine Diagnostics and Monitoring
SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.
Affiliations
Department of Telecommunications and Signalling, Faculty of Telecommunications and Electrical Equipment in Transport, Todor Kableshkov University of Transport, 158 Geo Milev Str., 1574 Sofia, Bulgaria
Department of Electrical Power Supply and Electrical Equipment in Transport, Faculty of Telecommunications and Electrical Equipment in Transport, Todor Kableshkov University of Transport, 158 Geo Milev Str., 1574 Sofia, Bulgaria
Funding
Bulgarian National Science Fund
References (51)
Show source-provided references
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