ABB’s Structure Mounted Outdoor Switchgear (SMOS) Light switchgear has received full approval from Network Rail following a stringent five-year review process. As a family of switchgear for rail traction substations, SMOS Light features nine standard modules that can be built up to create any configuration used on the UK’s rail network. Approval under Network Rail’s Parts and Drawings System (PADS) means that engineers, consultants and contractors can now integrate SMOS Light throughout the UK. Only products and systems that have achieved PADS approval may be installed on Network Rail’s infrastructure. The modular approach means that the switchgear offers significant benefits to Network Rail’s operators, project managers and construction engineers. It creates certainty for major programmes and saves money and time during projects, enabling faster delivery and demonstrating value-for-money for passengers and stakeholders. SMOS Light has already been adopted under trial certificates for the Great Western, Gospel Oak to Barking, and Crossrail projects as well as on the test track at Hitachi’s Newton Aycliffe manufacturing site.