Development of a scaled-down single-viaduct model for comprehensive rail potential monitoring and stray current analysis

Abstract

This research investigates the intricate relationship between load variations, environmental conditions, and the resultant stray current generation within DC railway systems. A scaled-down single-viaduct model was employed to establish a controlled experimental environment for real-time monitoring of voltage differentials between the railway tracks and the grounding structure. This research developed a stray current monitoring system for a scaled-down single-viaduct model. The system comprises of a power supply, voltage and current measurement capabilities at the power supply, and two levels of stray current measurements at each point. Data such as ambient temperature and humidity, current and voltage at the power supply, and voltage differentials between the railway tracks and the grounding structure are recorded using an Arduino Mega2560 microcontroller. It is hypothesised that stray currents, quantified as voltage differentials between the tracks and the grounding structure, vary in response to changes in load and environmental conditions. Experiments were conducted under various scenarios: variable load, constant load with rain, and constant load across different seasons. The results indicated that with a variable load, the voltage between the tracks increased. During constant load with rain, the average voltage between the tracks rose due to decreased insulation between the tracks and the grounding structure. Lastly, under constant load across different seasons, the most significant voltage change was observed during the rainy season. The findings demonstrate a significant correlation between these variables, with a pronounced influence of environmental conditions, particularly precipitation, on voltage fluctuations. These results underscore the critical importance of effective stray current mitigation strategies for safeguarding the integrity of railway infrastructure and ensuring the safety of personnel. The study offers a valuable contribution to the understanding of stray current phenomena and provides essential insights for the development of advanced protection systems.