Alstom successfully tested P80 point machine with new design of turnout in Ekibastuz, Kazakhstan

18 June 2019 – Alstom’s JV KEP[1] successfully tested its P80 point machine during a 6-months period on a newly installed turnout at Shiderty station, Ekibastuz, Pavlodar region. These tests were conducted in cooperation with KTZ (Kazakhstan Railways) and PMK (Prommashkomplekt) who developed new design of turnout. KEP has received official confirmation from KTZ Ekibastuz signalling and communication department, that during field tests from November 2018 to May 2019 no technical deviations were detected. P80 passed a severe winter operating in the temperatures lower than -40ºC and did 1200 switches.

«We are very pleased that these field tests proved our point machines’ flexibility and adaptability to Kazakhstan’s environment and maintenance conditions, as well as demonstrated uninterrupted operation and absolute compatibility with the upgraded turnouts manufactured by our partner in Kazakhstan”, said Guillaume Tritter, Alstom Managing Director for Kazakhstan.

Manufactured in KEP, Almaty Alstom’s P80 point machine is designed to operate with low maintenance level while providing the highest level of safety. P80 is suitable for mainlines, metro and freight lines. P80 point machine is certified for speeds up to 180 km/h and lifetime up to 20 years of commercial operation. Alstom has installed more than 50,000 point machines in over 30 countries worldwide.

KEP was formed in 2013 and was awarded a €90 million contract for the supply of 10,000 point machines to KTZ. Today KEP is owned 50/50 by Alstom and Special Oil Projects. With a total surface of 2,870m², KEP employs 50 people and is working on supplying the point machines P80 to KTZ. Today 2,820 point machines have been in commercial operation and have proven to be reliable and suitable for Kazakhstan’s rail lines.

[1] KEP – “JV “KazElektroPrivod” LLP (50% Alstom, 50% SOP Trade)