Saft MATRICS MRX onboard battery systems offer 30 percent increase in capacity for upgraded Port Authority Light

Port Authority’s light rail system currently comprises 83 vehicles (LRVs) that usually run in a two-car configuration. The stock comprises 28 LRVs manufactured by CAF and introduced in 2003/4 – these were fitted with Saft batteries as original equipment – and 55 older Siemens Duewag SD-400 LRVs, dating back to 1993, that are now being refurbished. CAF is responsible for the general overhaul programme, but the Port Authority of Allegheny County regards the batteries as a critical element and elected to take direct responsibility for their replacement.

The onboard battery systems, with a nominal voltage of 24 V, supply backup power for low voltage DC loads such as lights, doors, alarms and instruments. The conventional Ni-Cd batteries fitted originally to the SD-400s had provided excellent service. However, the operator now needed a battery capable of providing increased capacity and higher performance. This was to bring the battery capability in line with the CAF LRVs, in anticipation of the installation of additional equipment that will increase the burden on the onboard electrical system.

“The primary reason for selecting Saft MRX batteries was to achieve a significant increase in battery capacity within the limited installation space available, while the centralized filling system to reduce maintenance time was also an important factor”, says Dave Kramer, Manager Railcar Maintenance for the Port Authority of Allegheny County. “So far the new batteries have met our expectations and the interconnected fill system has simplified maintenance. We have also been impressed by the level of support, information and assistance provide by Saft’s knowledgeable team throughout this project.”