Enhancing the reliability of railway track circuit power supply systems using a microcontroller-based self-checking dual-channel architecture

Abstract

This article analyzes the types of track circuits currently used at railway stations of Uzbekistan Railways and their distribution. The study is based on operational data collected from 244 stations. Using statistical analysis and diagrammatic visualization methods, the frequency ranges, design characteristics, and application shares of the track circuits were identified, and their operational efficiency was evaluated. The results indicate that 25 Hz and 50 Hz track circuits constitute the dominant share; however, the presence of numerous low-share yet diverse modifications reveals a high level of system fragmentation. This condition complicates operation, maintenance, and modernization processes. The paper substantiates the prospects for standardizing track circuits and modernizing them through the implementation of microcontroller-based power supply and phase-sensitive devices.