Weighwell Engineering Ltd have installed a full train weighing system (PTW 500-VB2X) for Africa’s first ever high-speed line. The system was seen as the most appropriate and convenient solution to the customer’s needs.

The PTW 500-VB2X was chosen primarily due to its lightweight and portable nature, and the ability to configure the ptwX train weighing software, which graphically displays the weighing data, for the customer’s needs.

The weighing system is beneficial in highlighting any imbalances in weight distribution, and can provide highly accurate wheel, axle and total vehicle weighing results.

Installed in Tangiers, Morocco, the static weighing system will initially weigh Alstom TGV Duplex trains. Société Marocaine de Maintenance des Rames à Grande Vitesse, a 60:40 joint venture between ONCF and SNCF, will maintain the trainsets as part of 15 years deal worth €175 million.

The trainsets will primarily operate on the Tangiers to Casablanca route. This route is expected to carry up to 10 million passenger per year and reduce the journey time to just over 2h.

Morocco’s Tangier high speed train depot was officially inaugurated on 20 September, with high-speed operation expected after static commissioning and testing.

Weighwell managing director Paul Horsfall said: "Our work overseas has led to longstanding relationships with a diverse range of illustrious names with PTW’s in over 25 different countries.

"The recent installation in Africa’s first ever high speed rolling stock depot showcases our versatility and commitment to understanding different cultures and practices in foreign markets and tailoring our product portfolio towards an ever increasing international audience."