Jakarta, INTI - The Head of the Research Center for Electrical Technology (PRTK) of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Eka Rakhman Priandana, emphasized that the electrical aspects play an important role in reducing the risk of accidents at level crossings. He stated that the electrical system supports optimal train signaling through the use of an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), ensuring uninterrupted operation during power outages.
In the Electric Rail Train (KRL) system, checking the height and tension of overhead electrification cables is crucial for maintaining operational safety. Furthermore, rail grounding resistance must be maintained below 1 Ohm to ensure magnetic and electric field emissions remain within safe limits.
To improve safety, Eka is promoting the strengthening of artificial intelligence (AI)-based signaling systems, the installation of sensors such as axle counters and LIDAR, the closure of unsecured crossings, and the provision of safer alternative routes.
"Going forward, the most needed electrical technology innovation is an AI-based signaling and crossing safety system that can operate automatically," he emphasized.
Concerns of Vehicle Breakdown
Eka also addressed public concerns regarding the possibility of vehicle breakdowns due to exposure to electromagnetic (EM) waves from trains. Research shows that the magnetic field around the tracks when a train passes averages 47.73 µT, with the lowest value being 22.6 µT and the highest being 82.06 µT.
"This value is not much different from the Earth's magnetic field, which humans encounter every day without issue. As long as the vehicle system passes the ISO 11451 electric field radiation immunity test and the ISO 11452 magnetic field emission immunity test, the vehicle will not stall due to field emissions of that magnitude," he explained.
He explained that disruptions to the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) of new vehicles can potentially occur if the magnetic field exceeds 2,000 µT, far above normal conditions around train tracks.
Conclusion
Electrical systems play a crucial role in level crossing safety, from UPS support for train signaling, crossing, and siren functions during power outages, to monitoring overhead power cables and rail grounding. He encouraged the modernization of AI-based safety systems, axle counters, and LIDAR sensors.
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