Upgraded axles for Taichung Metro Green Line gradually installed, first train enters testing on the 14th

The upgraded axles for the semi-permanent couplers of the Taichung Metro Green Line electric multiple units have all arrived at the Beitun Depot. The original vehicle manufacturer, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, has also adjusted its assembly method to prevent the recurrence of the problem of axles getting stuck due to poor vertical operation. Taichung Metro Company stated that the first train with the upgraded axles installed entered the main line for operational testing on the 14th, and in the future the public will be able to see trains gradually running on the tracks. As for the schedule for resuming service on the Green Line, it still needs to be approved by the "Taichung City - Metro Failure Review Committee."

Taichung Metro Company stated that after the incident of semi-permanent coupler axle breakage on the Green Line electric multiple units, it immediately announced the suspension of trial operations. After expanded inspections and inspections by an impartial third-party unit, the manufacturer, in order to thoroughly resolve the risk of failure, re-strengthened the axle strength and changed the axle type. All 36 axles on the Green Line will be replaced with upgraded axles. After each train completes its axle replacement, it will first undergo 100 km of testing on the test track. After testing is completed and the train returns to the depot for inspection with no abnormalities found, it will then enter the main line for 300 km of operational mode testing.

The first train with upgraded axles entered the main line for operational testing on the 14th. Before departure, Taichung Metro Company Chairman Lin Chih-ying and relevant supervisors inspected the preparation status, and stated that the other 17 trains will also gradually enter the main line for testing after installation is completed. After the trains complete operational testing on the main line, they will be transferred back to the maintenance depot for a thorough inspection to confirm that all equipment is operating normally. According to the plan submitted by the Taipei Metro Bureau and the manufacturer, the installation of the upgraded axles is expected to be fully completed by February 2, and all 18 trains will successively complete main line testing.

Taichung Metro Company emphasized that as for the schedule for resuming trial operations, the "Taichung City - Metro Failure Review Committee" must review whether the test results of the axle upgrade solution are consistent with the cause analysis, and only after it is determined that safety is assured will Taichung City agree to resume trial operations.