BART's hardware¿from bolts to computers

Abstract

In 1965 BART began the Mt. Diablo Test Track. Three laboratory cars were built and used to test new technology. The testing program included reduction of sound and vibration, propulsion equipment and power supply, transit vehicle trucks, automatic train operation, rails and rail support, and aerial structures, tubes, and tunnels. Five propulsion system were tested, and dc chopper control was selected. The Rohr built transit cars, 250 of them, feature cantilever seat construction, noise suppression, air conditioning, and glare free lighting. The car trucks are equipped with derail detectors connected into the automatic train operation system. On aerial structures and in tunnels, rail is fastened directly to the concrete slab or tunnel invert. For the Berkeley Hills tunnel, which crosses the Hayward Fault, rails were mounted on timber ties to permit speedy realignment. The Trans Bay Tube contains both horizontal and vertical curvature. Fifty-seven prefabricated sections were floated into position, then sunk. The Trans Bay Tube terminates in a ventilation building at each end. Cathodic protection is used. Welded rail was used, and the second pour technique for concrete. BART purchases power at 34.5 kvac. This power system has seven sections. An I section steel third rail provides strength and the top running surface for overrunning pickup shoes. Aluminum inserts carry the current. A J shaped cover protects against accidental contact. Automatic train operation handles speed regulation, programmed station stops, and train door operation. Line supervision provides best possible service schedules. Train protection maintains the safety of the operation.