Innovations and solutions

Having now developed strong relationships with experienced and key figures within the industry, in late 2002, attention returned to the Railguard series when HGI were invited to discuss the creation of something which as yet had not existed.

Working with Jarvis Rail, HGI designed and developed a 16kVA multi-voltage road-tow generator, capable of providing not only 650V single-phase for signalling but also 230V and a true 110V CTE output for site equipment and power tools. The unit was intended as a complete, all-round packaged solution which could be deployed by a wider range of vehicles than the larger 100kVA units and would also provide a more versatile solution under breakdown or emergency conditions.

Staying as close as possible (as a mobile would allow) to the spirit of SSP generator specification, the machine was a success and also gained Network Rail Product Acceptance. It was quickly followed by another unique innovation (inspired by the same Rail Engineer) when HGI went on to create a system of emergency signalling cable reels.

This system was intended to provide up to 1km of approved signalling cable in a form that could be deployed by one man (if necessary) and delivered where required in one (small) van. The result was a reel system, each comprising 65m of B2 cable, weighing under 25kgs each and capable of interlinking. The modus operandi was to deploy the cable trackside, bypassing the fault/damage and allowing power (and thus signals) to be restored sooner than had previously been possible. All saving lost minutes and reliving pressure on repair staff.

This system was soon followed by a 5kW 650V petrol portable set, allowing access where even the 16kVA road tow could not be used and again, restoring power quickly and saving lost minutes (and the resultant charges).

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