Safe Braking System Malfunctioned Prior to Train Crash in Wales
An investigation revealed that a system fitted on trains to automatically discharge sand when wheel slide is detected during braking failed.
An investigation into a train collision in Wales found that an automatic sanding system, designed to ensure safe braking, did not function properly on the train involved in the accident.
The collision in Talerddig on Oct. 21 resulted in one fatality, four serious injuries, and 11 hospitalizations. The incident took place on Network Rail’s Cambrian line, west of a passing loop for trains traveling in opposite directions.
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) determined that Train 1J25 from Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth overshot its stop by 1,000 meters before colliding with a passenger train from Machynlleth to Shrewsbury, both operated by Transport for Wales (TfW).
Both trains were equipped with a wheel slide protection system similar to anti-lock braking systems in cars.
The automatic sanding system installed on the trains should discharge sand through sanding hoses when wheel slide is detected during braking to increase friction at the wheel-rail interface. Initial examination by the RAIB suggests that wheel slide may have occurred while braking.
A subsequent inspection revealed that the sanding hoses on the leading vehicle of Train 1J25 were blocked, preventing the discharge of sand during the time of the collision.
Ongoing Investigation
The RAIB is investigating conflicting reports about the trains’ speeds at the time of the collision. The sequence of events leading to the accident and the condition of the braking, wheel slide protection, and sanding systems on Train 1J25 are also being analyzed.
Network Rail and TfW are cooperating with the investigation and emphasized the importance of awaiting the full report’s findings before drawing conclusions.
TfW’s Chief Operations Officer expressed condolences for the incident and vowed to determine the cause of the collision. Network Rail’s route director described the event as tragic but reassured that such incidents are rare. Safety checks have been conducted on-site, and test train runs have been facilitated.
