Train thermal cameras tested to help prevent delays

One of the cameras will inspect the track while another monitors the power supply

Thermal imaging cameras have been fitted to a commuter train as part of a year-long trial to help prevent delays to journeys, Network Rail has said.

Two cameras have been fitted to the South Western Railway (SWR) train, named Hotshot, to monitor tracks across Surrey, Hampshire, Berkshire, Dorset and London.

Neil Drury, engineering and infrastructure director for SWR, said the cameras were helping to identify potential infrastructure issues before they escalated.

During an earlier, more limited trial, engineers were able to fix a fault near Ashtead, in Surrey, with no delays to passengers, whereas a similar issue once caused delays of more than 41 hours, Network Rail said.

One thermal camera has been fitted to the front of the Class 450 train to pick up electrical issues, while the other has been fitted underneath to monitor the shoe gear and third rail, which power the train.

Class 450 train Hotshot being fitted with the cameras

The cameras will detect the types of issues which cause average delays of about 200 minutes each, Network Rail said.

Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy said: "This government is fundamentally reforming how our railways are run, creating a network that works better for the people and freight using it.

"The cutting-edge technology that the integrated South Western Railway is trialling is key to achieving this and will serve as an example of the kinds of smart investments publicly owned rail companies can implement to improve services for passengers.

"Upgrades like this will prevent disruption and reduce delays - supporting growth, jobs and homes as part of the government's plan deliver an efficient and reliable railway."

The year-long trial has been designed, managed and funded by asset management company Angel Trains.

If successful, the cameras will be fitted to more trains on the network.