• These cables are typically buried underground and serve various purposes in railway networks:
  • Point Machine and Relay Circuits: Carry signalling data.
  • Train-on-Track Circuits: Facilitate communication between trains and tracks.
  • Signalling Speed Limit Indication Circuits: Provide vital indications (e.g., yellow light for low speed, double yellow light for even lower speed, and red/green lights for STOP/GO signals).
• Standard railway cables include 10 Twisted Pairs (TWP) and 6 quad Polyethylene Insulated Jelly Filled (PIJF) cables. The PIJF insulation makes them suitable for sub-soil deployment.

The reduction factor is a crucial design parameter for current trackside signalling cables. It indicates the cable’s level of protection against electromagnetic interference caused by catenary cables in high-speed train lines.

The AESA test system for reduction factor complies with major standards and allows for variable distances between the loop conductor and the cable under test. 

Key features of the AESA test system to measure the reduction factor are:

• Fast and compliant measurement to prevent overheating of the cable sheath.
• Unique—currently the only automatic and complete solution available on the market.
• Controlled by software for full traceability and can be integrated with MES or ERP systems

• Traction Power Cables: 
  • These cables supply power to electric locomotives, trams, and trains. 
  • Linear resistance testing ensures efficient power transmission and minimises energy losses.
  • Traction power cables often have large cross-sectional areas due to high current requirements.

• Overhead Line Cables (Catenary Wires):

• • These cables provide power to electric trains via overhead wires.
  • Linear resistance testing ensures proper current flow and minimal voltage drop.
  • Overhead line cables have unique designs and are subject to wear and environmental factors.