Disruption on Tyne and Wear Metro as fleet undergoes fault checks which 'will take several days'
Disruption across the Tyne and Wear Metro network is continuing as the fleet undergoes checks for faults which "will take several days".
Nexus advised commuters against travelling at rush hour on Monday 22 July due to a reduced service causing gaps between trains of up to 24 mins.
The operator initially said checks were being carried out on trains which would "take several days".
On Monday afternoon, Kevin Storey, Metro operations director, said: ”Stadler is working to urgently deal with a Metro fleet availability issue, which is impacting our ability to provide a full service for our customers.
“This has been caused by a faulty batch of carbon strips, an essential component of the pantographs which are used to power Metro trains from the overhead line.
“We’ve taken swift action to better understand and address this and prevent more serious disruption to services.
“Every single Metro train is having its pantographs checked to ensure they do not have a fault. This is vital given that a damaged carbon strip could bring down overhead wires.
“Trains will be busier than normal. Customers are advised to allow extra time and to avoid travelling in the peak if they can.
“We’re sorry for the inconvenience this is causing customers. We’re working with our colleagues at Stadler as quickly as possible to rectify the issue.”
The pantograph is the stick of metal between the train and the overhead lines.
Paul Patrick, managing director for Stadler Rail Service UK, said: "Stadler is liaising closely with Nexus to resolve a fault on the pantograph, which been identified on some of the trains. The problem is with the carbon strips, an essential component on the pantographs.
"In the interests of safety, some trains were not able to enter service this morning, as a comprehensive programme of testing and investigation got under way to rectify the fault and get trains back into operation as quickly as possible.
"In partnership with Nexus and the supplier of these components, we are working on this as a matter of urgency.
"Pantographs on all Tyne and Wear Metro trains are being scrutinised and the lead engineer from both Stadler Rail Service UK and our supplier has been deployed to focus on this issue. Our supplier is conducting its own testing on carbon strips at their premises."
The firm said it was making "good progress" and trains had been reintroduced onto the network.
The service is operating to all destinations but eight trains were out of action.
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