Scope
Description
The purpose of this preliminary market engagement exercise is to identify de-icing products that might assist Network Rail in overcoming operational difficulties associated with the operation of third-rail traction systems during icy conditions.
Electric railway vehicles that obtain their power through a DC third rail system rely on the quality of the electrical connection between the conductor rail and the train's pick-up shoe.
In winter conditions, ice can form on the conductor rail degrading the quality of the electrical connection to such an extent that the trains are unable to function properly.
Network Rail operates a winter treatment program on Southern, and North West and Central, Regions where anti-ice products are deployed on the conductor rail to help prevent ice build-up, thereby maintaining the required electrical connection.
At present, Network Rail does not have a suitable de-icing product that can be deployed in the event of ice forming on the conductor rail and it is undertaking this preliminary market engagement exercise to identify products that might serve that purpose.
The Procurement Documents can be downloaded from Network Rail's BravoNR sourcing platform via this link.
https://networkrail.bravosolution.co.uk/web/login.html
From the welcome screen, access the 'Current Opportunities' link and select
#41208 - Preliminary market engagement exercise for de-icer product for third rail applications
Total value (estimated)
- £300,000 excluding VAT
- £360,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 1 September 2025 to 31 August 2028
- 3 years
Main procurement category
Goods
CPV classifications
- 24951310 - De-icing agents
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
Engagement
Engagement deadline
16 June 2025
Engagement process description
The purpose of this Procurement Event is to identify de-icing products that might assist Network Rail in overcoming operational difficulties associated with the operation of third-rail traction systems during icy conditions.
Participation
Particular suitability
- Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
- Voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSE)
Submission
Publication date of tender notice (estimated)
1 August 2025
Procedure
Special regime
Utilities
Contracting authority
NETWORK RAIL INFRASTRUCTURE LIMITED
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PNZN-9524-VCQJ
Waterloo General Office
London
SE1 8SW
United Kingdom
Contact name: Simon Godfrey
Email: Simon.Godfrey@networkrail.co.uk
Website: https://www.networkrail.co.uk/
Region: UKI45 - Lambeth
Organisation type: Public authority - central government