Extending Depot Control and LOPS with Third-Party System Integration
The Requirement
The project required the existing DCS/LOPS arrangements to be extended to serve four new sidings, Roads A–D, while integrating the new infrastructure with systems already operating within the depot.
A key requirement was to deliver the works without disrupting depot operations. The project also required careful consideration of the existing control logic and interfaces between the original LOPS and third-party Depot Protection System.
The FirstClass Solution
FirstClass extended and modified the existing DCS/LOPS system and provided a new FirstClass Sidings Control Panel for the four new siding roads.
The new control panel was integrated with the existing third-party Depot Protection System and the original LOPS, enabling the new sidings to operate as part of the wider depot control arrangements.
As part of the project, FirstClass also undertook HAZOP/HAZID analysis of the existing control logic, identifying operational anomalies within the existing arrangements and supporting the development of the modified system.
Integration & Technical Capability
The Ardwick project demonstrates FirstClass’s capability to modify and extend existing depot control infrastructure rather than requiring wholesale replacement.
The solution required integration of new FirstClass equipment with both an existing third-party Depot Protection System and the depot’s original LOPS. This involved understanding the existing system architecture, control logic and operational interfaces before implementing the extension.
The works were delivered while depot operations remained unaffected, allowing the facility to continue operating throughout the project.
The Outcome
The completed project extended the existing depot control arrangements to incorporate the four new Ardwick sidings while retaining and integrating with existing third-party infrastructure.
Following the project, FirstClass has continued to provide 24/7 support, maintenance and modification services for the Ardwick system, demonstrating the company’s ability to support both its own equipment and legacy or third-party depot safety and control systems throughout their operational life.