Photo credit : Loram
Loram’s new generation ‘RGC’ rail grinding machine for Network Rail has successfully completed ETCS Level 2 testing. Making it the UK’s first On Track Machine fitted for in-cab digital signalling and ETCS Enabled.
RGC01 is the latest rail grinder that Loram has supplied to Network Rail to replace an older rail-profile-treatment and remediation machine. RGC01 is fitted with an ETCS system supplied by Hitachi Rail and earlier this year completed successful trials at NR’s Tuxford and Melton Mowbray Test Tracks.
The two-year ETCS design, integration and enabling project involved successful collaboration between Loram in the US, Loram EMEA’s production, testing and commissioning team based in Derby; ETCS system supplier, Hitachi Rail; as well as design and integration teams from Aegis and TUV.
Lee Tinney, Manager Director of Loram EMEA said:
“Loram’s world leading rail grinding technology plays a discreet but essential role in supporting a safe and reliable railway. Our Derby based team has successfully completed the integration and testing of ETCS on RGC01, demonstrating our capability to install the latest signalling technology to specialist vehicles as well as support increasing customer demands for fitment to a range of passenger and freight fleets.
“I’d like to thank all our partners for working alongside us to deliver this project within tight timeframes and to budget, as well as members of NR’s East Coast Digital Programme for sharing their ETCS operational experience which proved invaluable to our team.”
Paul Maynard, Vice President, Integrated Communications Supervision and Mainline Signalling, Hitachi Rail UK, said:
“On-track machines present a unique integration challenge, operationally, mechanically and in assurance, but RGC01 has shown that with the right end-to-end engineering discipline, it can be delivered successfully.
“This milestone reinforces the value of early systems integration, robust testing and strong joint-working across the supply chain. We congratulate Loram on achieving a UK-first and look forward to supporting the next stages of digital capability for specialist fleets.”
Chris Hobden, Network Rail’s Programme Director, East Coast Digital Programme, said:
“We welcome Loram’s introduction of a new grinding machine ready fitted for digital in-cab signalling.
“We continue to work with all relevant partners to prepare the On Track Machine sector for the eventual transition to no-signals on the East Coast Main Line. ETCS will enable a more efficient, higher performing, and even safer railway.”
Built in the US and shipped to the UK in May 2025 the ETCS enabled RGC rail grinder is fitted with 40 grindstones. These can be digitally programmed to re-profile the railhead to a variety of configurations; dependent on track quality, required line-speed and any specific requirements from NR’s route engineers.