OLE
Overhead Line Equipment
The equipment and supporting infrastructure used to supply electrical traction power to trains through overhead conductors and a train-mounted pantograph.
Detailed explanation
Overhead Line Equipment (OLE) is the collective term for the overhead electrical and mechanical equipment used to distribute traction power to electric trains.
The system typically includes the contact wire, catenary or messenger wire, droppers, cantilevers, registration equipment, insulators, tensioning devices, sectioning equipment, feeders, supporting structures and associated fittings. Electrical current is collected from the contact wire by a pantograph mounted on the train.
OLE must maintain the required geometry and mechanical characteristics of the contact wire to provide reliable current collection throughout the specified operating speed range. The design therefore considers factors such as contact wire height, stagger, tension, span length, track geometry, temperature variation, wind loading and dynamic pantograph–catenary interaction.
OLE arrangements vary according to railway type and location. Conventional flexible catenary systems are widely used on open routes, while tunnels, stations and other restricted-clearance areas may use specialized arrangements or rigid overhead conductor systems.
OLE has significant interfaces with track, rolling stock, bridges, tunnels, stations, viaducts, traction power, signalling, telecommunications, earthing and bonding, electromagnetic compatibility and maintenance access.
The terms OLE and OCS (Overhead Contact System) are often used for closely related concepts. Terminology varies between countries, railway administrations and projects; OLE is particularly common in UK railway terminology.
Railway applications
mainline, high_speed, metro, light_rail, freight, depot
Standards and references
EN 50119; EN 50122 series; EN 50367; IEC 60913; applicable railway electrification standards and infrastructure specifications