Infrastructure

Feeding systems & Cantilevers: Innovation in power transmission

Feeding systems & Cantilevers: Innovation in power transmission

  • A preferred European supplier in power transmission
  • Fully designed in-house
  • Our center of excellence in Lecco, Italy
  • Robust and easy to install innovative cantilevers

Alstom’s centre of excellence based in Lecco has over a century of experience in designing and manufacturing power transmission solutions for railways, tramways, and metro systems. Our extensive expertise has established Alstom as a leader in infrastructure solutions, with a commitment to delivering innovative and reliable power transmission components that enhance public transport systems worldwide.

  • 100+
    years of experience
  • 200+
    references worldwide
  • 300
    km/h performance with Clever™, enabling peak speeds
  • 25kV
    and 3kV versions of Clever ™

Different types of our feeding systems

Several types of feeding systems are commonly used in railway operations, each offering unique advantages:

Third Rail

A third rail system uses a single rail positioned alongside the tracks to deliver power directly to electric trains through a contact shoe. This system is often found in urban transit networks, providing a compact design that is ideal for environments where overhead structures are impractical.

Overhead Catenary

The overhead catenary system utilises suspended wires above the tracks to supply electric power collected via pantographs mounted on the roof of electric trains. Widely employed in long-distance and high-speed rail services, this method allows for greater flexibility in train operation, supporting higher speeds without the need for bulky infrastructure near the tracks.

APS (Alimentation Par le Sol)

APS is an innovative underground power supply system designed for trams and light rail vehicles. By supplying energy without the use of overhead wires, APS is particularly advantageous in urban areas where aesthetics and reduced visual clutter are essential.

  • Third Rail

    A third rail system uses a single rail positioned alongside the tracks to deliver power directly to electric trains through a contact shoe. This system is often found in urban transit networks, providing a compact design that is ideal for environments where overhead structures are impractical.

  • Overhead Catenary

    The overhead catenary system utilises suspended wires above the tracks to supply electric power collected via pantographs mounted on the roof of electric trains. Widely employed in long-distance and high-speed rail services, this method allows for greater flexibility in train operation, supporting higher speeds without the need for bulky infrastructure near the tracks.

  • APS (Alimentation Par le Sol)

    APS is an innovative underground power supply system designed for trams and light rail vehicles. By supplying energy without the use of overhead wires, APS is particularly advantageous in urban areas where aesthetics and reduced visual clutter are essential.

Focus on Alstom’s innovative overhead catenary system (OCS): Clever™

Alstom's Clever™ is an adjustable and easy-to-install cantilever solution designed for railway electrification. It features a robust and lightweight structure with a reduced number of components, simplifying installation. By minimising connections, Clever enables faster setup, decreasing installation time by up to 40%. Its innovative design ensures stability and easier maintenance, making it an efficient choice for infrastructure professionals. Crafted with stainless steel and aluminium, it meets high standards of reliability and performance, embodying Alstom’s expertise in catenary systems while setting a new benchmark for electrification solutions in the industry.

  • A feeding system in the railway industry refers to the infrastructure that supplies electrical power to trains, ensuring their smooth and efficient operation. A reliable power source is crucial for trains to function, making feeding systems an integral component of rail networks worldwide.

    Feeding systems cane be segmented in two categories: overhead catenary system technologies (OCS) and ground feeding systems.

    • Advanced engineering capabilities: Our experienced teams specialize in mechanical and electrical engineering to deliver high-performance parts using steel, bronze, and aluminum, enhancing energy efficiency, safety, durability, and cost-effectiveness. 

    • Leading the way in European feeding systems: With decades of experience, we leverage global innovation to develop feeding systems that meet regulatory standards and exceed customer expectations for reliability, safety, and efficiency. 

    • In house manufacturing capabilities: Alstom’s feeding system components are designed, manufactured, and assembled at our center of excellence in Lecco, Italy, covering all aspects from R&D to delivery for catenary, 3rd rail, and APS™ systems.