© Siemens

The transport revolution is in full swing on the European rail network: more and more railroad lines are being electrified, which makes a major contribution to climate protection: An electric freight train emits around 40% less carbon dioxide than a diesel train due to the electricity it generates. However, bridges are often too low and tunnels too small for conventional overhead lines, which would result in high conversion costs. Axel Schmieder, Wolfgang Braun and Martin Altmann from Mobility and Thomas Koch from Gas and Power have invented a new arrester system solution that protects against flashover despite shorter air distances. This eliminates the need for costly conversions when laying the new power lines.