Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing specialists, NMi ETS, have recently provided on-site EMC and EMF testing to help a company ensure their lifting equipment is safe for use on the rail network.
The company had installed heavy lifting equipment for use within rail operations, meaning it needed to be tested on site, something which NMi ETS were pleased to deliver.
“Anything used within rail which potentially creates electromagnetic interference has to be tested to ensure it won’t impact safety. When it comes to major systems, rolling stock and even lifting equipment, it needs to be tested in its operational environment” says Conan Smith, Director of NMi ETS.
Though not mounted on rails, the proximity of the static lifting equipment to rolling stock and other rail equipment meant it required careful testing against stringent standards.
All electric or electronic equipment produces an electromagnetic field which can potentially interfere with other equipment. The rail network is subject to specific regulations (EN 50121 series) which ensure such interference does not reach levels which can affect the operation or safety of railway services.
“Particularly with modern control, communication and signalling equipment, safety is paramount. NMi ETS can test devices, equipment, rolling stock and even entire locations, to ensure they do not produce interference which can impact safety” says Conan.
To test the heavy lifting equipment, calibrated antennas and filed probes were placed at specific distances whilst the equipment was operated to the full extent of its capabilities.
The test included measurement of radiated emissions from 9 kHz to 1 GHz to ensure the equipment would not exceed the required emission limits specified by the product standard.
An electromagnetic field (EMF) assessment was also conducted to evaluate the overall electromagnetic field and ensure it was well within human exposure limits.
The four-day testing, which took place in Scotland, was successful, with all radiated emissions below the required limits for the applicable rail standards, and EMF levels well below occupational limits.
To obtain approval in accordance with EN 50121, testing must be conducted by a designated EMC Technical Service, like NMi ETS, within a suitably-controlled test environment.
“At NMi ETS, we have the expertise, technical knowledge and resources to provide comprehensive on-site EMC testing across a range of applications, from railway systems to fixed installations. However big or bulky the equipment, we can be on site to conduct a range of EMC tests” concludes Conan.
To enquire about NMi ETS EMC testing, visit: https://landing.etsemc.co.uk/perfect-partner-emc-testing
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