The Land Transport Authority (LTA) today announced the completion of the Singapore Rail Test Centre (SRTC) in Tuas, which occupies a site of approximately 50 hectares. Fully equipped to conduct rigorous testing and commissioning of trains and core railways systems, the SRTC will support testing requirements for both new and existing rail lines.
Multi-system compatibility and concurrent testing capabilities
2 Construction of the SRTC commenced in 2021 and was completed in two phases. The first phase, completed in November 2023, saw the opening of a 2.8-km high-speed test track designed with minimal curvature and gradients to allow trains to reach and maintain maximum speeds of up to 100km/h for traction and brake testing. We have been testing and commissioning new Circle Line (CCL) trains since November 2023.
3 The second phase has now been completed and has two more test tracks. One of these is a 2.8-km performance and integration test track with a branched S-track for integrated train testing. The other track is a 3-km endurance looped test track with a section of uphill gradient for Train Mileage Accumulation Tests, to verify the reliability and durability of the train’s systems after running for a specific mileage. The SRTC facility also includes a three-storey building housing an Operations Control Centre, administration offices, workshops, and inspection and maintenance areas to support mid-life upgrading works for trains.
4 The three test tracks are designed to accommodate various signalling and communication systems used across the MRT network. The high speed test track is also equipped with both third-rail and overhead conductor rail power systems to allow for testing of trains and systems from different MRT lines.
Enhancing rail reliability and efficiency
5 The SRTC will play a key role in ongoing efforts to enhance rail reliability as we continue to expand and renew our rail network. With the completion of SRTC, testing of trains will no longer rely on overseas facilities or occupy limited engineering hours on our operational rail network. The SRTC will allow for comprehensive testing of various railway systems, including signalling, communications, power, and integrated supervisory control systems, before they are implemented on the main lines. By enabling round-the-clock testing in a controlled environment without disrupting passenger services or maintenance on operational lines, the SRTC will support our efforts to strengthen rail reliability.
6 Beyond train testing, the SRTC will also serve as a hub for research and innovation. It will support the development of new technologies for the rail industry by providing facilities for LTA, rail operators, and rail original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to test new technologies and systems. Such facilities and partnerships will also create opportunities to deepen operational and maintenance capabilities among our local rail workforce.
Sustainability features at SRTC
6 The SRTC is awarded BCA’s Green Mark Platinum Certification, with energy-saving equipment incorporated into its design and operations. These include features such as smart lighting control, solar photovoltaic panels and a hybrid cooling system. Bicycle parking lots and sheltered linkways are also provided to promote sustainable mobility within the facility and to encourage walking and cycling.
Enclosed: Annex A – Overview of the SRTC
