OCS Height, Stagger, and Wear

Overhead/catenary line height, stagger, and wear are key parameters to measure and manage in rail systems which rely on overhead electrification.

Distance between the top of rails and the contact line (height) directly impacts power transmission.

Proper Stagger, the lateral swing (or zig zagging) of the contact wire, helps maximize pantograph life by ensuring consistent wear across the entire surface and avoiding the formation of grooves.

Monitoring wire wear is an important task as worn wires are at a greater risk for a sudden failure leading to a safety hazard, stranded passengers and the need for a track closure to complete repairs.

PTI offers a variety of solutions for OCS inspection depending on the required inspection speed and inspection scope (e.g., height, stagger, wear).