A Structural Framework for Monitoring Stray Currents in DC Electric Rail Transportation Systems Using a Condition-Based Maintenance (CBM) Approach

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Ph.D Student, School of Energy Engineering and Sustainable Resources, College of Interdisciplinary Science and Technology, University of Tehran

2 Dean of the University, Transportation and Traffic of Tehran Municipality

3 College of Interdisciplinary Science and Technology, University of Tehran

10.22059/ses.2025.394548.1142

Abstract

In DC electric rail systems, the use of running rails as the return path for the train’s electric current-due to the low electrical resistance (poor insulation) between the running rails and the ground, as well as the potential difference between the rails and the ground-leads to part of the return current leaking into the ground beneath the rails. This phenomenon, known as stray current or leakage current, can cause various issues, including electrochemical corrosion and a reduction in the service life of rails and nearby metallic underground infrastructure. Electrochemical corrosion caused by stray currents in metallic structures is a long-term process, and the results of irregular periodic measurements of stray currents cannot accurately reflect the extent of corrosion. Therefore, continuous measurement and monitoring of stray currents, along with analyzing their variation trends, is essential. This study explores the concept of Condition Monitoring (CM) and Condition-Based Maintenance (CBM), analyzing the structure of key standards in this field, such as ISO 13374 and the OSA-CBM standard. Finally, considering the frameworks of these referenced standards, a model is proposed for monitoring stray currents in a DC electric rail transportation system using a condition-based maintenance approach.

Keywords

Journal of sustainable Energy Systems

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 13 May 2025

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