Leiterbahnsystemen
Leiterbahnsystemen, also known as conductor rail systems or contact line systems, are a method of supplying electrical power to moving vehicles, most commonly trains, trams, and trolleybuses. These systems consist of a continuous conductive rail that is mounted alongside or above the track. A current collector, typically a shoe or a pantograph, on the vehicle makes contact with this rail to draw the necessary electrical power for propulsion and other onboard systems.
There are two primary types of conductor rail systems: the third rail and the overhead line. The
Overhead line systems, also known as catenary systems, employ a wire or multiple wires suspended above the
The design and implementation of Leiterbahnsystemen involve considerations for insulation, current carrying capacity, maintenance, and safety.