25 November 2021 | PACE Networks
In November 2021, PACE Networks, provider of rail electrification infrastructure, celebrates 10 years since its foundation. The business’s roots go back even further, to the 1960s, when co-founder Brian Cullum started an apprenticeship in a distribution network operator. Brian moved on to work in the supply of specialist electrical equipment, managing regions, working in acquisitions and launching a company, which he went on to sell. Then, in 2011, he came together with his son, Jon, to create PACE Networks Ltd. PACE has worked on every major UK rail electrification project that has taken place since.
PACE Networks develops long term relationships with suppliers and customers, enabling innovation and service that deliver real value. More than 19 product acceptance approvals have been obtained, across a range that includes cantilevers, switches and disconnectors, insulators and bridge arms, fixed earth devices, droppers and clamps. In recent years, PACE has introduced services such as stocking and, in 2021, corona camera inspection and reporting, to enhance customers’ project and maintenance efficiency.
There have been some notable highlights:
- Electrification of Manchester-Liverpool saw PACE’s Omnia cantilevers deliver 40% weight reduction and faster installation,
- Rutherglen and Coatbridge was delivered way ahead of the original schedule, with PACE achieving 5 week delivery on some materials,
- Fixed earth devices with remote securing, developed alongside partner Morris Line Engineering, are now often used across the network as part of the drive for safer isolations.
With a Power division which is now also working with all major UK Power Transmission and Distribution operators, PACE Networks is truly a key partner in electrification.
Managing Director, Gavin Smith comments “Being close to our customers is the foundation of everything we do. Alongside investment in our people and processes, this is our focus for 2022 and beyond.”
Jon Cullum is also looking forward “I expect the next 10 years to be busy as the authorities grapple with decarbonisation and the changing nature of power networks. I believe that we will add further value through specialist services that complement our core technologies, and we continue to seek out partners from around the world that enable us to bring technology to operators in the UK and Eire.”
In celebration of 10 years, PACE is keen to support others and learn more about how it can help the industry it serves. With this in mind, the company will make a charity donation on behalf of everyone from the industry who completes a short survey here: https://pace-networks.co.uk/10-years/