Sunbury Train Line Powerline Survey
July 7, 2021

Balpara was engaged by the Rail Infrastructure Alliance for our comprehensive powerline survey and electrical engineering services. Our expertise was requested to complete a review of proposed design clearances as part of the Sunbury train line upgrade. This was to ensure the Rail Overhead Line Equipment (OHLE) cables and structures achieved statutory clearances to the powerlines crossing the rail corridor at every location necessary for the extent of the train line in Jemena’s Network region. 

 

Using power distribution design and survey techniques, Balpara verified the clearances at all Jemena overhead powerlines using electrical distribution industry design calculations and software. These checks ensured all clearances meet power utility standards for safety. 

 

Project Overview

 

The $2.1 billion Sunbury Line Upgrade will see a combination of power upgrades and platform extensions to support High-Capacity Metro Trains travelling through the Metro Tunnel. 

 

Project Scope

 

  • Completing a full survey of existing powerlines and conductors, including a sag and sway assessment, to allow for a comprehensive review of electrical design.
  • Surveying several consecutive spans of conductor for the design software/standards used in the power industry to be calculated correctly. 
  • Creating a full electrical design and clearance report provided on the existing overhead powerlines verifying the clearances, including calculated height of the conductors over the existing rail tracks. 


Value Add

 

Balpara was able to verify that all clearances were met, allowing for the upgrade to continue without adding further costs or duration to the infrastructure and transport project.   

 

Relevant Accreditation/Quality Standards

 

  • Balpara has held ISO9001 certification for over six years without non-conformances and attained re-certification to the new AS/NZS 2016 Standard. AusNet accredited surveying, design and drafting.


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