Electrification of the Great Western line

Case Study Overview

10km of Great Western Line track needed to be upgraded in just 6 weeks.

Challenge

Works during the summer months involved lowering track through Dundas Aqueduct, Box Tunnel, Middle Hill and Sydney Gardens. Box Tunnel proved most challenging as it was 2.9km long and required constant ventilation to keep the air quality safe for workers.

Solution

Powerful fans were located at each end outside the tunnel, with large ducting carrying the air into the tunnel. The fans provided high speed jets of air into the tunnel, creating a vortex which continuously sucked further fresh air into the tunnel. Air flow was maintained at 2 metres per second, and consistent levels of good air quality were maintained throughout the project.