Infrastructure

Feeding systems & Cantilevers: Innovation in power transmission

A preferred European supplier in power transmission
Fully designed in-house

Alstom’s centre of excellence based in Lecco has over a century of experience in designing and manufacturing power transmission solutions for railways, tramways, and metro systems. Our extensive expertise has established Alstom as a leader in infrastructure solutions, with a commitment to delivering innovative and reliable power transmission components that enhance public transport systems worldwide.

Our product range includes crucial infrastructure components such as the third rail for metros, the APS™ ground-level power supply solution for tramways and a range of catenary components for railways and tramways including tensioning devices and cantilevers. Railway transport networks all over the world today benefit from the reliability and durability of our solutions, guaranteeing passengers a reliable and efficient service in their everyday travel.

What is a feeding system?

A feeding system in the railway industry refers to the infrastructure that supplies electrical power to trains, ensuring their smooth and efficient operation. A reliable power source is crucial for trains to function, making feeding systems an integral component of rail networks worldwide.

Feeding systems cane be segmented in two categories: overhead catenary system technologies (OCS) and ground feeding systems.

What are the different types of feeding system?

Several types of feeding systems are commonly used in railway operations, each offering unique advantages:

Third Rail

A third rail system uses a single rail positioned alongside the tracks to deliver power directly to electric trains through a contact shoe. This system is often found in urban transit networks, providing a compact design that is ideal for environments where overhead structures are impractical.

Overhead Catenary

The overhead catenary system utilises suspended wires above the tracks to supply electric power collected via pantographs mounted on the roof of electric trains. Widely employed in long-distance and high-speed rail services, this method allows for greater flexibility in train operation, supporting higher speeds without the need for bulky infrastructure near the tracks.

APS (Alimentation Par le Sol)

APS is an innovative underground power supply system designed for trams and light rail vehicles. By supplying energy without the use of overhead wires, APS is particularly advantageous in urban areas where aesthetics and reduced visual clutter are essential.

Third Rail

A third rail system uses a single rail positioned alongside the tracks to deliver power directly to electric trains through a contact shoe. This system is often found in urban transit networks, providing a compact design that is ideal for environments where overhead structures are impractical.
Overhead Catenary

The overhead catenary system utilises suspended wires above the tracks to supply electric power collected via pantographs mounted on the roof of electric trains. Widely employed in long-distance and high-speed rail services, this method allows for greater flexibility in train operation, supporting higher speeds without the need for bulky infrastructure near the tracks.
APS (Alimentation Par le Sol)

APS is an innovative underground power supply system designed for trams and light rail vehicles. By supplying energy without the use of overhead wires, APS is particularly advantageous in urban areas where aesthetics and reduced visual clutter are essential.

What are the benefits of Alstom’s feeding systems?

Advanced engineering capabilities: With a focus on robust technology, Lecco’sour experienced teams deploy their expertise in mechanical and electrical engineering to produce the best parts for each market. In particular, the use of various combinations of steel, bronze and aluminium provide excellent energy performance while enhancing safety, durability and cost-effectiveness.
Leading the way in European feeding systems: We have widely acclaimed experience and know-how in feeding systems, acquired over decades in Europe and developed by leveraging our global innovation capability. This investment in innovation has allowed us to create products that not only meet regulatory standards but also surpass customer expectations in terms of reliability, safety, and efficiency.
In house manufacturing capabilities: Alstom’s feeding system components are developed, manufactured, and assembled in our site of Lecco in Italy. This center of excellence is gathering the knowledge and capabilities for designing, R&D, prototyping, tooling, manufacturing, testing, and delivering all types of feeding systems, including catenary, 3rd rail and APS™.

Feeding systems are essential for the effective operation of railway networks, and Alstom’s innovative solutions significantly enhance the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of rail transportation. By understanding the different types of feeding systems and their benefits, rail operators can make informed decisions to improve their networks and meet modern transportation demands. Not only, Alstom has expertise in feeding systems, our centre of excellence also innovates in cantilevers solutions.

Focus on Alstom’s innovative overhead catenary system (OCS): Clever™

Alstom's Clever™ is an adjustable and easy-to-install cantilever solution designed for railway electrification. It features a robust and lightweight structure with a reduced number of components, simplifying installation. By minimising connections, Clever enables faster setup, decreasing installation time by up to 40%. Its innovative design ensures stability and easier maintenance, making it an efficient choice for infrastructure professionals. Crafted with stainless steel and aluminium, it meets high standards of reliability and performance, embodying Alstom’s expertise in catenary systems while setting a new benchmark for electrification solutions in the industry.

100+

years of experience
200+

references worldwide
300

km/h performance with Clever™, enabling peak speeds
25kV

and 3kV versions of Clever ™