By the end of 2020 the Busto Arsizio-Gallarate terminal of Hupac in northern Italy will be able to handle 740-metre long trains. This is thanks to the application of a new digital interlocking system on 21 June 2020. It is an important step to be in conjunction with the upgrade of the transalpine railway infrastructure in general, said Dario Arcotti, Head of Engineering at the Hupac Group.

On the weekend of 21 June, a new digital interlocking system was successfully introduced at the Busto Arsizio-Gallarate terminal. The computerised system manages all trains entering and leaving the terminal in the direction of Gallarate station. It replaces the old electromechanical system, which has been in operation since 1998.

New technology

The introduction of the new technology will allow the modification of the current Hupac pick-up and deliver tracks with a lengthening of the sidings. The new digital signalling system controls the rail traffic at the interface between the terminal and the network of RFI, the Italian rail infrastructure manager.

By the end of 2021 it will also manage the internal circulation of the entire terminal, controlling switches, signals and level crossings in a safe and flexible way, intermodal operator Hupac added.