Screen doors are integral to rail project

23rd October 2017

SCX Group

Joe Bush

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The installation of a platform screen system on the multi-billion-pound underground Crossrail project is being supported by engineering firm SCX. The mechanical handling rig, devised by SCX Special Projects’ engineers for rail systems contractor Knorr-Bremse, has helped to transform the installation process and generate significant benefits.

SCX worked closely with Westinghouse Platform Screen Doors (WPSD) to design and build the rig, resulting in increased efficiencies, including time and cost savings. The solution has earned widespread praise for SCX’s engineering excellence.

In the region of 500 platform screen doors are being installed at the eight new underground stations on the Crossrail project, protecting passengers from the track and train, creating a quieter and cleaner platform environment and economical air conditioning.

Installation of the platform door modules – weighing up to two tonnes - needs to be performed from the track, rather than a conventional ‘on platform’ construction. The SCX rig facilitates fast, accurate and safe mounting of complete door modules onto the platform, as well as being easy to operate.

Danny Pickard, Lead Engineer at SCX Special Projects, said: “Our clients tend to have one thing in common - a unique and complex mechanical handling problem, which needs an engineering solution. In looking to solve those problems we innovate in every area of the design, whether that’s mechanical, electrical, controls, structural or safety.

“SCX’s mechanical handling expertise encompasses the entire process from concept design, to fabrication and assembly, right through to final installation. The brief from WPSD/Knorr-Bremse touched on all of those disciplines. It’s a real pleasure to work with a client like WPSD/Knorr-Bremse, and a genuine privilege to play our part in the success of the London Crossrail project.”

One of the key engineering challenges was the limited amount of space in which the mechanical handling system had to operate. The rigs delivered by the SCX Special Projects team are of a compact design, yet more than capable of the task as highlighted in a film report for the BBC’s The One Show.

Knorr-Bremse, Project Manager Robert Harker, said: “SCX Special Projects has worked closely with us and delivered a solution which demonstrates ingenuity and engineering excellence. The quality and functionality of the rigs are outstanding and they are proving easy to operate on-site.”