One 5th-gen C151B train to be retrofitted with latest reliability-centred capabilities in proof of concept

A proof of concept trial featuring the latest reliability-centred capabilities will be carried out on a 5th-gen C151B train operating on the North-South and East-West MRT lines (NSEWL).

The agreement between rail operator SMRT and Chinese train manufacturer CRRC Qingdao Sifang was signed on the first day of the Singapore International Transport Congress & Exhibition (SITCE) 2024 on Wednesday (Nov 6).

SMRT and CRRC Qingdao Sifang Collaborate to Explore Key Upgrades on C151B Train

KSF B Train Technology Refresh Proof of Concept. (Image: SMRT/Facebook)

As part of the proof of concept contract, SMRT and CRRC Sifang will explore retrofitting the latest reliability-centred capabilities on one of the 45 C151B trains operating on the NSEWL.

At the time of writing, SGTrains observes that trainset 661/662 has not been seen running for an extended period and trainset 635/636 since June 2024, according to crowdsourced data on trainspotting platform SGTrains Spotters.

LEARN MORE: Kawasaki Heavy Industries & CSR Qingdao Sifang C151B trains »
SEE ALSO: Running Status of NSEWL Trains: Not Spotted »

Some reliability-centred capabilities for the retrofitted C151B train include a condition-monitoring system that supports predictive maintenance activities, paired with structural health monitoring technologies to “keep close tabs on the train’s structural integrity.”

“By identifying micro changes in the stresses and strains that a train undergoes, structural health monitoring can help engineers sharpen maintenance focus and zoom into train parts that require greater attention,” SMRT said in its press release.

The onboard Train Integrated Management System (TIMS), which gives the train captain an overview of the train’s status, for the retrofitted C151B train will be “levelled up” to provide “more detailed and accurate information” on the health status of critical train systems.

“Together, they contribute to SMRT’s ongoing and proactive efforts in finding solutions to detect and rectify potential issues related to the trains early, minimising service disruptions.”

The retrofitted C151B train will also feature an upgraded air conditioning system with enhanced cooling capacity and eco-friendly technologies for enhanced commuter comfort and environmental sustainability.

SMRT and CRRC Sifang will also explore future-proofing the propulsion and auxiliary power supply systems by “replacing obsolete parts and increasing power capacity.” The proof of concept will be carried out on one of the 45 C151B trains “till mid-2026”.

Apart from the signing of the contract for retrofitting a C151B train, SMRT and CRRC Sifang also signed a memorandum of understanding to deepen collaboration in the area of digitalisation, advanced automation and robotics.

Related Links
Kawasaki Heavy Industries & CSR Qingdao Sifang C151B – SGTrains
Running Status of NSEWL Trains: Not Spotted – Spotters by SGTrains

External Links
SMRT and CRRC Sifang Collaborate to Explore Key Upgrades on C151B Train for Enhanced Reliability and Commuter Comfort – SMRT

Images: SGTrains, SMRT/Facebook.
This article first appeared on SGTrains.