Greenway Rail and Power – South London Substation

Lineside cable troughing is not always the easiest task to complete, with existing routes, vegetation and older infrastructure often getting in the way. Obstacles like these have to be factored into the design of a project and often lead to certain products being specified or requested. Rail contractors Greenway Rail and Power were contracted to deliver such a project at a substation in South London, where our Arcosystem was the perfect solution.


The project

Greenway were asked to raise the HV feeder cables from ground based troughing to elevated. The main reason for this upgrade was to protect the cables from excess surface water caused by drainage issues arising from the woodland which lied in close proximity to the route.  Elevating cables for this reason is becoming more commonplace now that we are susceptible to more surface water.

Speaking about how Scott Parnell were able to assist in bringing the project to fruition David O’Connor, Director of Greenway Rail and Power said “Charlie and Ian both helped excellently, Charlie was always available and helpful when quoting and ensuring we had the materials in quick time.  The site had an issue with overhead power lines so we could not use a HIAB vehicle but Ian took time to visit site to ensure we could unload carefully and safely by hand ensuring the lorry had enough room to manoeuvre.”

The solution

Arcosystem was the perfect choice for this project; it is the only Network Rail approved elevated GRP cable trough suitable for High Voltage cables which can support itself at 6 meter post centres.  Due to the route needing to span over the water ways, and over vegetation, a route which installs with less post centres was the obvious choice.

This, coupled with the lightweight nature of the product and the reduction in post centres meant the install was quick and easy.  David confirms “The Arcosystem works very well on long runs and helped us ensure the containment of cables over a waterway running right through the middle of the site.”

The verdict

“The install went very well and in good time.  Within a few weeks the cables could be rejointed and energised ensuring full capacity of the railway thus preventing further delays to our passengers.  Greenway would happily use Scott Parnell and Arcosystem going forward, and we certainly look forward to dealing with the team on the next project.”

David O’Connor
Director, Greenway Rail and Power

Alongside our standard range of Arcosystem, Scott Parnell assisted in providing High Voltage demarcation lid labels and additional security straps due the the risk of unauthorised access to the route.  All these materials are stocked at our depots across the UK, available for delivery within a matter of days.

Scott Parnell holds the rail industry accreditation RISQS (Railway Industry Supplier Qualification Scheme), which formally recognises the company as capable providers of products and services.  To get in touch with one of our rail experts, please contact out team on 0208 805 5797.