Soltek Powersource has supplied over 200 solar power systems to a major railway as part of a program to monitor traffic along the Trans-Canada rail lines. These systems detect the passage of trains, and relay this information via radio or land line to local dispatch offices. This helps avoid collisions and improves traffic flow.

The systems are unique in that they use solar power to operate. This allows the track to be monitored in any location, no matter how remote. Soltek Powersource has designed power systems to function even during extreme winter conditions, essential for the safe operation of rail traffic. Each power system consists of a Shell Solar SP-65, 65 watt module, used to charge two individual Ni-Cad cells. A special controller converts the 17 volt solar panel output to 1.5 volts. The controller supervises battery charging, and has a high efficiency DC-DC converter.

The power systems energize relays, using the rail as one of the conductors. If a train passes over the rail, the relay loses power and closes, signaling the presence of a train. A single solar module operates two traffic detectors, one for each direction.

The Shell Solar SP-65 modules are mounted 20' above the ground on a 2” pipe. An adjustable mount tilts the panel at the optimum angle for winter performance - 65 degrees in southern locations, and 75 degrees in the more northern sites. The controllers are mounted in the battery enclosures. All wiring is TECK armored cable.