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New Gripple OLE solution gets Network Rail approval
Network Rail has approved Gripple’s latest innovation, SwiftLine Forked Collar, a revolutionary new product designed to take the complexity out of overhead line equipment (OLE) installation.
Forked collars, used for terminating and connecting the ends of conductor wires on OLE, have traditionally been hindered by complex installation processes. The lack of a universal design has made them susceptible to user error, which can lead to increased safety risks and costly project delays. Gripple’s new Swiftline Forked Collar overcomes these issues thanks to its innovative design with tool-free installation, so engineers can easily make adjustments as required.
The introduction of Forked Collar is the latest addition to Gripple’s game-changing SwiftLine OLE range, complementing the existing SwiftLine Rail Dropper and SwiftLine Rail Jumper. Together, these products position Gripple as a comprehensive, one-stop solution for OLE engineers, delivering a fully integrated approach to overhead line installation and saving them precious time on-site and operational complexity.
“It’s a game-changer,” says Paul Whittle, Gripple’s Product & Business Development Manager. “Getting Network Rail approval confirms what we already knew: this product sets a new standard for safety, speed, and simplicity. It helps teams hit tight deadlines, reduce costs, and eliminate the risk of install failure.
“Repeatable adjustability, universal compatibility, and tool-free installation ensures efficient project completion within tight deadlines. Contractors can shorten their project timeframes with faster installation processes, making them more competitive by reducing labour costs.”
Traditional forked collars rely on a cone-shaped gripping mechanism, which doesn’t allow the wire to return once it has been pushed through. But Gripple’s SwiftLine Forked Collar features a universal wedge system compatible with all cable sizes on both catenary and contact wires. This reduces the number of SKUs a customer needs to manage, freeing up storage space and simplifying inventory.
Additionally, the CAP-Lock feature ensures complete adjustability, and inspection windows facilitate ground-level checks, ensuring that the right length of wire is always passed through the product. The robust design has no weld, improving product durability and reliability.
The introduction of SwiftLine Forked Collar follows the successful introduction of SwiftLine Rail Dropper and SwiftLine Rail Jumper, developed to offer engineers working on OLE a faster, safer, and easier solution. Driven by the ambitious target for UK rail infrastructure to achieve net zero by 2050, the SwiftLine range is already having a huge impact on the efficient rollout of electrification projects in both the UK and globally.
“As the UK rail sector works towards its Net Zero 2050 goal, innovative solutions like SwiftLine are essential to accelerating electrification,” said Paul. “OLE is critical infrastructure, and we’re committed to helping engineers deliver it with maximum efficiency and minimal risk.”
To find out more about Gripple’s Swiftline Forked Collar and its other innovative solutions for the rail sector, please click here.
Why use Gripple?
- Network Rail Product Approved – Fit for use in OLE applications
- Speed up installation and bring forward completion dates
- Work Safer – Spend less time working at height and at night
- UK Manufactured - Designed and manufactured in Sheffield
- Simple to use tool free system with minimal training needed
- High quality technical information and support provided