Metro train testing below the city shifts into double-time
15.01.2024
Testing is ramping up in the 15.5-kilometre twin metro tunnels between Chatswood and Sydenham, with eight trains successfully travelling on the new track at the same time, double the previous maximum of four trains testing simultaneously.
Testing up to eight trains at once allows the performance of each train to be monitored closely to ensure the new turn-up-and-go metro timetable of a train every four minutes during peak periods can be replicated.
Across the weekend of Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 January, an additional testing milestone was achieved with 33 of all 45 metro trains in the combined fleet completing at least one return journey between Tallawong and Sydenham.
Since the rigorous testing and commissioning program started in April 2023, more than 7,500 hours of a total of 11,000 hours of required testing have been completed.
Extensive noise testing has been completed inside trains and the new tunnels, with microphones and vibration sensors installed, which are sensitive enough to detect a pin drop. This form of testing confirms noise emitted across the network does not exceed predicted noise and vibration comfort levels.
Over the coming months, final integration testing between the trains, signalling and station systems will continue. This includes assessing passenger help points and trialling passenger information displays, before heading into trial running.
When metro services start deep below the Sydney CBD this year, commuters will have access to easy, fast and reliable public transport services with record travel times including from:
- Castle Hill to Martin Place in 35 minutes
- Macquarie University to Central in 26 minutes
- Chatswood to Gadigal in 13 minutes
- North Sydney’s Victoria Cross under the harbour to Barangaroo in 3 minutes
- Central to Martin Place in 4 minutes
- Central to Sydenham in 7 minutes
- Sydenham to Chatswood in 22 minutes