Modern equipment with a modern appearance. II. Start of revenue service June 14, 1996, on time-under budget

摘要

On June 14, 1996, Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) officially started passenger operation on the first segment of the Light Rail Starter System. The opening of the system was received enthusiastically by the public and the trains were jammed. This was a real test for the overall system, especially of the Light Rail Vehicles (LRV), because of the 100/spl deg/F plus temperatures during this week and the more than maximum passenger loads. This placed near maximum design conditions on both the air conditioning and propulsion/brake systems. The main features of the project are outlined including the effect of the Great Hanshin earthquake on the main contractors, Kinkisharyo. The author then discusses the design verification testing of the LRVs (including car-body structural tests, climate room tests, floor fire tests, dynamic testing, and the weight control program), the system interfaces, and procurement.