Event Type: Technical lecture

10 October 2017 18:30to19:30

The Railway Division Chair, Richard McClean, will consider the role of engineering and engineers in contributing to the future railway industry in a complex and changing world. He will set out what the broader economy and society requires of the rail sector and what rail can offer back. The address will highlight what the rail industry needs to do to become more attractive as a career choice for new generations of engineers and what the Railway Division should focus on to support this.

Industry: Railway

Event Type: Technical lecture

12 September 2017 18:30to19:30

Vivarail was set up to produce trains that delight both passengers and train operators. They incorporate the latest engineering features configured to make the trains easy to use and convenient for passengers. Operators like their low total life costs and modular design which makes for low cost and adaptability.

Industry: Railway

Event Type: Technical lecture

09 May 2017 18:30to19:30

The Class 323 electric multiple units were built by Hunslet Transportation Projects Ltd from 1992 to 1995 and were equipped with 25 kV AC fed Holec traction equipment. Owing to obsolescence of the GTOs (Gate Turn-Off Thyristors), the decision was taken to replace them with IGBTs (Integrated Gate Bi-polar Transistors). Jonathan Greening will describe the technical challenges behind this project and how they were overcome. The event includes a tour of Alstom’s Preston facility.

Industry: Railway

Event Type: Technical lecture

11 April 2017 18:30to19:30

The electrification programme in the North West will see over 300km of lines electrified, improving connections between towns and cities in our region and beyond. The first two phases of electrification are now complete with passengers enjoying new electric services from Manchester Airport to Scotland, Liverpool, and between Huyton and Wigan. Ryan Duff will describe the background to the programme including a technical overview, an update on what’s been achieved and what the next steps are.

Industry: Railway

Event Type: Competition event

14 March 2017 18:30to19:30

Each year the Railway Division holds a competition for the best technical presentations by Engineers in the early stages of their careers, with a first prize of £1000. Regional heats are followed by a final held in London. The North Western Centre AGM takes place on the same evening and offers of assistance for the committee are welcome. This year the event takes place at Longsight Depot in Ardwick, to help celebrate its 175th anniversary, and it includes a tour of the Alstom Traincare Centre.

Industry: Railway