Modernisation of railway systems without interrupting traffic
The modernisation of railway systems without interrupting traffic has become a major challenge for operators of critical rail networks. In the railway sector, operational continuity is an absolute requirement: on some interlocking systems operating up to 18 hours a day, any unplanned shutdown can cause major disruptions for passengers.
This constraint also applies to onboard railway electronic systems, locomotives, special-purpose rolling stock, as well as energy management and distribution in traction substations. Operators target availability levels above 99.95%, while simultaneously needing to maintain and modernise ageing automation systems.
Challenges of railway modernisation without traffic shutdown
Railway modernisation is essential to ensure systems remain:
Reliable and maintainable
Compliant with current standards and regulations
Adaptable to digital technologies
However, any intervention on critical railway systems involves significant risks, such as:
Traffic interruption
Temporary degradation of safety
Extended intervention times
Direct impact on operations and passengers
Traditional “shutdown-based” replacement approaches are no longer acceptable. The modernisation of railway systems without interrupting traffic must be progressive, secure and fully transparent for operations.
Technical approaches for modernising railway systems
To address these constraints, projects focused on the modernisation of railway systems without traffic interruption rely on several complementary technical levers.
Automation migration without traffic interruption
This approach enables the progressive and controlled integration of new automation systems without any global system shutdown, while maintaining full control of critical functions at every stage.
Partial redundancy of critical systems
Implementing targeted redundancy on the most sensitive modules strengthens system robustness and guarantees service continuity, even in the event of component failure.
Off-site testing and simulation platforms
Testing and simulation platforms play a key role by validating automation systems and functional scenarios upstream, under near-real operating conditions, with no impact on the live network.
Field-proven methodology for critical railway modernisation
The success of a railway system modernisation project without interrupting traffic relies primarily on a rigorous methodology tailored to operational constraints.
On-site functional audit: analysis of existing architectures, operating modes and critical points
Off-site validation (FAT): simulation and validation of new automation systems on dedicated test benches
Progressive commissioning: modular deployment using very short maintenance windows, compatible with near-continuous railway operations
Expertise dedicated to railway operational continuity
This comprehensive approach — combining engineering expertise, field methodology and mastery of critical railway systems — is implemented by LEROY Automation alongside railway operators.
The solutions developed help secure and modernise onboard electronic technologies and equipment in compliance with the EN 50155:2021 standard, while ensuring uninterrupted railway traffic.
Each railway modernisation project without traffic interruption is designed on a bespoke basis, taking into account:
Operational constraints
Railway safety requirements
Availability objectives
👉 The constant objective: modernise existing systems while guaranteeing service continuity.
Looking to modernise railway systems without stopping traffic?
Do you operate critical railway systems in continuous operation?
Let’s discuss your challenges related to reliability, availability and modernisation without interrupting traffic.
AGON Railway provides engineering services and develops testing and simulation platforms for railway electronic systems.
👉 Contact LEROY Automation to study your project involving:
rolling stock control-command systems
traction power substation automation
onboard signalling and communication systems (ATO, ATP)