Insulators

Tender description

Network Rail requires the manufacture and supply of polymeric insulators which are used on NR's infrastructure to support conductor rails in either third or fourth rail electrified lines. The insulators shall be suitable for use in 630 V and 750 V DC traction systems. The conductor rail system is designed for current collection at all speeds up to 160 km/h and under certain conditions a limited degree of arcing can occur, as such the insulators shall withstand the resultant transient effects and suitable for the following conditions: — An ambient temperature between -25°C and +40°C; — Localised heating of ambient air by stationary trains of +150°C; — Pollution from airborne iron dust from train brakes; — Contamination from diesel fuel, oil, grease from flange lubricators, de-icer fluid; — And weed killer; — Pollution from water ingress in tunnels and airborne steel particles from wheel — rail interfaces. Network Rail is seeking to understand current options in the market that meet its requirements for the supply of top-contact polymeric 3rd rail insulators. Network Rail wishes to engage with suppliers who have products that either meet our requirements or could do so with minimal adaptation. Therefore, Network Rail is looking to conduct supplier engagement by correspondence from the week commencing the 30.10.2017 to the 14.11.2017. To express an interest in participating suppliers are to email Emmanuel.Agyei@networkrail.co.uk not later than 13:00 on the 10.11.2017. Suppliers who register their interest will be sent the engagement pack by email, with feedbacks from suppliers to reach Network Rail before or on the 14.11.2017.