Unique Test Facility for Locomotives from Across Europe

On the Maasvlakte in Rotterdam, the Locomotive Workshop Rotterdam (LWR) provides a state-of-the-art facility for the maintenance, inspection and testing of electric locomotives. Strukton made a significant contribution to this unique location by delivering key elements of the power supply and rail infrastructure. Strukton designed and installed a flexible traction power substation and overhead contact line system, enabling locomotives to be tested under all commonly used European voltage systems.

Testing Under Four Voltage Systems

Rail vehicles in Europe operate under different overhead line voltages. International locomotives must therefore be capable of functioning under multiple power supply systems. For LWR, Strukton designed and delivered a flexible substation capable of supplying the test tracks with:

• 1.5 kV DC
• 3 kV DC
• 15 kV AC (16⅔ Hz)
• 25 kV AC (50 Hz)

This configuration enables locomotives for various European rail corridors to be tested, inspected and certified for operation at a single location.

Safe and Reliable Power Supply

The combination of an advanced traction power substation, overhead contact line system and safety installations provides a secure and reliable testing environment. The system allows operators to switch between different power supply systems in real time, making testing more efficient without the need to move locomotives to other facilities.

Part of a Larger Network

The Locomotive Workshop Rotterdam is part of a European network of maintenance facilities for electric locomotives. The site features modern maintenance equipment, workshop tracks and dedicated test tracks, and is strategically located near the Port of Rotterdam and the European freight rail corridor network. This enables locomotives to be maintained and tested efficiently, contributing to more effective rail freight transport.

Result

With the commissioning of the Locomotive Workshop Rotterdam, the Netherlands now has a unique testing facility where locomotives can be tested under all common European voltage systems. It is a smart, flexible and future-proof solution that supports international rail transport and improves the reliability of rolling stock.