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Rail Modelling & Data Analysis
We have over 25 years experience of compiling rail emissions inventories.
In recent years, we have developed a range of modelling and data analysis capabilities to help the rail industry to quantify its energy usage and environmental impacts, evaluate new traction technologies, improve the performance of the rail network, and support policy development and investment decisions.
Aether has assessed rail emission factors for the GB fleet, developed a rail engine emissions testing protocol, and undertakes emissions modelling and mapping at a range of scales. We have a detailed knowledge of rolling stock performance, diesel combustion technologies, battery performance capabilities, transmission systems and emissions mitigation technologies (and their associated costs and benefits). We work with a wide range of partners with complementary rail industry expertise.
Aether is familiar with the key rail industry datasets for infrastructure and geography, train timetable planning, and timing performance monitoring; and has developed innovative techniques for processing and visualising data from multiple sources, enabling the industry to gain greater value from such data.
We have developed a sophisticated modelling capability, applying the Davis equation for the forces acting on a train, that enables us to model the speed and timings of individual trains, as well as their emissions, taking account of the tractive effort capabilities and resistances of the rolling stock, route geography and timetables, and train loadings. We apply this capability to develop bespoke models that have helped clients, such as manufacturers, leasing companies and operators, to compare the performance and emissions of a range of traction options for new and retrofitted rolling stock, including battery, hybrid and hydrogen, and to assess different transmission options.
For more information please contact Mark Gibbs
Recent Work
In work for the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) we have reviewed and updated key British Rail Research on trailing load limitations for freight trains, enabling the accurate assessment of modern traction options. This work now underpins the Network Rail Digital Freight Loads Book.
We have also used modelling to investigate the Sectional Running Times (SRTs) on many routes on the GB rail network, identifying opportunities to improve timetabling and reliability through more accurate calculation and the use of high-performance modern traction.
We have recently completed an RSSB research project (T1348) to investigate the potential for reduce the speed differential between freight and passenger trains, taking into account the performance of modern braking systems. This involves modelling the required stopping distance for different combinations of locomotive, wagon and loading, and using mapped network geography and signal locations to identify where the signal spacing would allow for greater speeds.
In other recent work we have undertaken emissions modelling for key stations, collaborated on the development of a Rail Carbon Accounting Framework for the GB rail industry, and investigated the impacts of idling on emissions, providing guidance on how the industry can quantify and address potentially avoidable idling.
Speed, Energy and Emissions Simulator (SEEsim)
Our research has also informed the development of the rail Speed, Energy and Emissions Simulator (SEEsim, formerly known as the Railfreight Energy & Emissions Calculator, REEC) which we developed with Railwhere, a University of Hull spinout company, supported by Innovate UK funding. SEEsim has been used by Freightliner to support timetable pathing cases and for an analysis of the environmental and economic benefits of rail freight.
Testimonial
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