In 2006 Downer was awarded the order to build and maintain 78 passenger trains for Sydney Trains. HUBER+SUHNER was selected to supply the cabling. The partnership proved to be a successful one spanning several years across various key locations.

78 Waratah trains have successfully entered passenger service since 2011. The successful collaboration between Downer and HUBER+SUHNER has been a factor in this achievement. Through close customer engagement, HUBER+SUHNER was able to produce over 140,000 harnesses that supplied power to various systems including air-conditioning and fire detection services.

CONNECTIONS BASED ON FIBER OPTICS TECHNOLOGY

HUBER+SUHNER supplied the Waratah fleet with a fiber optic subsystem that provided data transmission for systems including video surveillance (CCTV) and passenger information systems.  The use of fiber optics in a train is a relatively new development within the railway industry and HUBER+SUHNER was able to demonstrate that reliable broadband data transmission can be successfully provided using robust constructions.

CROSS-BORDER PROJECT MANAGEMENT

The Waratah fleet was partially manufactured in China and Downer required a partner that could provide reliable, cross-border support. A HUBER+SUHNER team based in Australia provided project support that extended over two continents with HUBER+SUHNER China also engaged to produce the harnesses.

“Thanks to transparent project management, we had a clear idea of progress and cost,” said Alistair Warne, Engineering & Materials Manager from Downer.

This project highlights HUBER+SUHNER’s global capabilities. The company has strengthened its position in the rail market as a result.