wisselzone

Wisselzone is a term used in the context of railway operations, particularly in countries that use a different standard for electrical power supply to trains than the one commonly used. It refers to a section of track where the overhead power supply system changes its voltage or polarity. This is necessary when a train route traverses areas powered by different electrical systems, such as the transition from a 15 kV AC system common in Germany and Austria to a 3 kV DC system used in the Netherlands or Belgium, or vice versa.

These zones are designed to allow trains to pass through without interruption of power. Typically, a wisselzone is a relatively short section where the overhead lines of both systems are present and carefully managed. Specialized equipment is installed to ensure a smooth transition for the train's pantograph, the device that collects electricity from the overhead wires. This might involve overlapping sections of wire or other technical solutions.

The implementation of wisselzones is crucial for enabling interoperability between national railway networks and facilitating international train services. Without them, trains would need to stop at the border to have their pantographs changed or their power systems adjusted, leading to significant delays and operational inefficiencies. The design and maintenance of wisselzones require precise engineering to prevent electrical faults and ensure the safety of train operations.