METROFLEXX: a step towards a safer railways brake control

This paper describes the achievements and benefits obtained using an electronic-based Brake Control unit, METROFLEXX, suitable to perform Emergency and Service brake function with the high Safety Integrity Level (SIL). METROFLEXX replaces the complete traditional electro-pneumatic brake system, by performing a real time emulation of functions that are traditionally performed by pneumatic components. Therefore, METROFLEXX has been developed comply with the following CENELEC safety standards that represent the state-of-art for the railway transit market at European and worldwide level: EN 50126 (system level), EN 50129 (electronics hardware), EN 50128 (software), EN 50159 (safety related communication). An Independent Safety Assessment (ISA) has been completed by receiving the assessment report and the corresponding attestation of conformity from a recognized ISA company. Thanks to the METROFLEXX, several benefits can be achieved at system and train level, such as improved service reliability, improved safety and a better Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).