OLE Design for Rail
Specialists in the design, modernisation, and upgrade of OLE systems, we focus on sustainable design practices that enhance the efficiency, resilience, and long-term performance of electrified rail networks.
We specialise in the design of new OLE systems and the modernisation and enhancement of existing overhead line infrastructure. Softech Rail delivers services from initial feasibility studies and design concepts through to detailed design development and technical consultancy. With a proven and trusted track record in the rail industry, Softech has become the go-to partner for complex OLE design projects. Our insight and engineering expertise are regularly relied upon by major industry players, including Network Rail, Balfour Beatty, and Jacobs. We provide authoritative design guidance and technical support for some of the most demanding and high-profile schemes in the sector.
Our team’s deep-rooted knowledge ensures we not only understand the unique challenges of OLE design, but consistently deliver precise, future-ready solutions. As the UK’s electrified rail network continues to expand, we remain committed to driving design excellence and supporting the transition to more efficient, sustainable transport.
Electrification System Design
Design Integration & Technical Support
Power Distribution Design
Track Work System Design
OHLE Design
OLE Layout
Proven OLE Design for Rail
Our OLE design team specialises in all aspects of overhead line equipment design, supporting our clients from early-stage feasibility studies through to option development, single option selection, outline and detailed design. We follow the Network Rail PACE Engineering Stages ES1 to ES4, ensuring each stage of the design process is methodical, robust, and aligned with industry standards.
OLE Surveys
We have complete in-house capability to carry out a wide range of surveys and inspection services specific to Electrification Contact System infrastructure. These services support the OLE design process by delivering critical data for condition assessments, asset referencing, and comprehensive infrastructure mapping—forming the foundation for accurate and efficient design solutions.
Overbridges
We provide expert design advice on structure clearance and modification requirements associated with OLE infrastructure. Our work includes electrical clearance assessments and design-led solutions to support scenarios such as bridge reconstructions or demolition planning, ensuring compliance with OLE standards and alignment with route electrification objectives.
Route Improvements
We bring proven design expertise to complex route development projects, offering full layout and allocation design for major schemes. Our portfolio includes contributions to large-scale station redevelopments, capacity upgrades, speed improvements, and Route Electrification programmes.
From initial scoping through to design execution, we apply safe design principles, intelligent risk mitigation, and forward-thinking engineering strategies. Our commitment to quality and precision underpins every stage of the OLE design process, enabling more streamlined, dependable outcomes for our clients.
OLE Design Capabilities
- Railway electrification system design (Urban MRTS, monorail, long-distance, freight)
- OLE design from initial concept through to detailed design
- Power distribution system design – including concept development, simulation, and detailed design
- OHLE design – automatic setting out of catenary poles
- OLE layout planning and optimisation
- AC electrification design: traction power supply and substation integration
- DC electrification design: electrical track equipment (ETE), DC substation design, and upstream HV network design
- High Voltage (HV) and Low Voltage (LV) power distribution system design
- Earthing, bonding, stray current, and electromagnetic compatibility studies – including step and touch voltage assessments and earth fault current analysis
- Signalling power supply design: UPS, battery systems, and backup power integration
- Cross-section and alignment drawings for overhead line equipment
- Third rail electrification interface design (where applicable)
- Protection, control, and monitoring system design
- Statutory approval support for design documentation and compliance
Our Rail OLE Design and Build Projects
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