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 3rd or 4th 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 − 25ºC and + 40ºC, — Localised heating of ambient air by stationary trains of + 150ºC, — 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 a supplier to manufacture and supply polymeric insulators which are used on NR's infrastructure to support conductor rails in either 3rd or 4th rail electrified lines. The insulators shall be suitable for use in 630 V and 750 V DC traction systems. The proposed supply contract will be awarded under a zero value framework agreement which will be for an initial six year term plus a potential extension of up to 2 years.