Research project

Rail Energy Systems (IAA KTS)

Project overview

This Impact Acceleration Account (IAA) Knowledge Transfer Secondment (KTS) built on earlier work undertaken on the energy consumption of rail operations and infrastructure. It involved developing Arup’s existing software tools, including CO2ST – a tool for estimating embedded carbon in infrastructure construction. The KTS involved moving the tool to a new database platform which is accessible on the Arup Network, and developing the rail section to be compliant with Network Rail’s standards. This enables users across the business to share knowledge and ensure that it captures the latest practices within the rail industry.

The KTS also involved further development of the RouteMaster tool, used to model the operational energy consumption of a train. Enhancements include additional trains in the rolling stock library, the ability to model coasting, and the option of modelling tunnels along a route. The ability to model the impact of tunnels on operational energy consumption has enabled steps to be taken towards understanding the trade-offs between embedded and operational energy in rail infrastructure design.

Staff

Lead researchers

Professor John Preston

Professor in Rail Transport

Research interests

  • Demand, capacity and cost modelling for sustainable transport infrastructure.
  • The design, monitoring and evaluation of transport interventions designed to promote sustainable choices.
  • The determination of pathways for future mobility transitions to net zero carbon.
Connect with John

Collaborating research institutes, centres and groups

Research outputs