NTU And SMRT Set Up Joint Laboratory To Enhance Singapore's Rail System

SMRT-NTU Smart Urban Rail Corporate Laboratory officially
launched by Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and
Minister for Transport, Mr Khaw Boon Wan.

SMRT and Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) have launched a joint research laboratory to develop technology-driven solutions to build an urban rail system that is even more resilient and reliable as Singapore moves towards a car-lite future.

The new SMRT-NTU Smart Urban Rail Corporate Laboratory was officially launched today by the Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Minister for Transport, Mr Khaw Boon Wan.

The $60 million Corporate Laboratory will integrate the rail operations and engineering capabilities of SMRT with NTU’s research strengths in engineering.

The joint laboratory is supported by the National Research Foundation (NRF) Singapore under its Corporate Laboratory@University Scheme, which funds key corporate laboratories set up through public-private partnerships.

It is aimed at driving the effective translation of research into solutions that have direct relevance in addressing our national needs and meeting global challenges. The SMRT-NTU Smart Urban Rail Corporate Laboratory is the first laboratory under this scheme to focus on rail transport capabilities.

NRF Chief Executive Officer Prof Low Teck Seng said, “The SMRT-NTU Smart Urban Rail Corporate Laboratory is yet another collaboration under NRF’s Corporate Laboratory@University Scheme that will enable Singapore universities to carry out industry-relevant research. We are hopeful that the two partners will establish a strong collaboration that enables research to be translated into eventual benefits not just for the industry, but also Singaporeans.” 

NTU President Professor Bertil Andersson said, “Singapore’s rail system is an important pillar supporting public transportation and economic growth, and it is important that it remains reliable and sustainable. This joint lab will leverage NTU’s established strengths in engineering and technology to develop innovative rail solutions that will not only enhance Singapore’s rail system but benefit the global transportation industry.”

SMRT President and Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr Desmond Kuek, said, “The SMRT-NTU Corporate Laboratory marks a significant milestone in SMRT’s journey to improving rail reliability and delivering commuter-centric services. It is an excellent collaborative platform that brings together the operational and engineering experience of SMRT, and the scientific and research capabilities of NTU to deliver operational solutions that better serve the needs of our ageing and expanding rail transport network. These innovations will help solve some of the more intractable problems faced today, as well as proactively address the anticipated future challenges of a sustainable rail system that is safe and reliable for all.”

The SMRT-NTU Corporate Laboratory will focus on two complementary research tracks in the development of innovative urban rail solutions. Projects include developing real-time condition monitoring systems and enhancing the reliability of rail infrastructure and assets.


Track One: Eliminating problems before they occur

The first research track focuses on developing better detection methods and monitoring systems so that potential issues can be addressed quickly and accurately, even before they happen.

With real-time data from sensors which monitor critical rail equipment, timely and accurate decisions can be made to address a fault before a potential service delay.

For example, new condition monitoring sensors such as thermo-acoustic sensors which detect temperature fluctuations within materials, can be used to find cracks and defects that lie deep within components such as rail foots and joints.

Through 3D printing, these sensors can also be customised to fit inaccessible spots.

This research track aims to allow components and parts to be repaired or replaced immediately on the same day. This greatly reduces the need to disrupt train services during operation hours and prevents technical issues from escalating into a problem.


Track Two: Enhancing reliability of existing rail assets

The second research track aims to enhance the reliability of existing rail assets by optimising maintenance and servicing processes.

By using prediction methodologies and analytical tools to produce accurate data, the life span of train components and systems can be better assessed.

For example, prediction-analytical methods will be used to accurately assess wheel-rail wear and fatigue, and vibration and structural stresses that affect the longevity of critical rail and train components.

Track Two’s research projects will help in refining maintenance schedules to reduce potential problems, and ensure that train and track components are performing at their best.

Professor Lam Khin Yong, NTU’s Chief of Staff and Vice President for Research, said, “The new SMRT-NTU corporate lab will pave the way towards developing next-generation urban rail technologies and nurturing professionals that will contribute to Singapore's smart mobility eco-system and network. This partnership also builds on NTU’s strong track record of collaboration with local and multinational companies including ST Engineering, Rolls-Royce, and BMW Group.”

Managing Director, SMRT Trains, Mr Lee Ling Wee, said, “Both research tracks supported by the SMRT-NTU Corporate Laboratory aim to strengthen the operational resilience of our rail network.

“By leveraging on the expertise of NTU, we hope to strengthen our current condition monitoring system capabilities and enhance the resilience of our rail infrastructure and trains. SMRT intends to integrate techniques from both complementary research tracks to improve rail reliability and better serve our commuters. The collaborative effort will also provide an opportunity to nurture our rail engineers and instil greater engineering passion while acquiring new knowledge and skills.”


Nurturing next-gen professional engineers

NRF’s Corporate Laboratory@University Scheme ensures that universities achieve impact by developing cutting edge solutions for problems faced by industries. The scheme, which promotes multi-party collaboration, also seeks to create employment opportunities in technology-driven industries and train a pool of industry-ready research manpower who can push the technology boundaries for these industries.

The SMRT-NTU Smart Urban Rail Corporate Laboratory will nurture engineering specialists in the rail industry who are prepared to tackle future national transportation challenges and develop innovative transportation solutions that can be used globally.

The joint lab will provide training opportunities for over 100 undergraduates, 35 graduate students and 60 researchers, across a broad range of specialisations.