<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><ns2:project xmlns:ns1="http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk/gtr/api" xmlns:ns2="http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk/gtr/api/project" xmlns:ns3="http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk/gtr/api/fund" xmlns:ns4="http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk/gtr/api/person" xmlns:ns5="http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk/gtr/api/project/outcome" xmlns:ns6="http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk/gtr/api/organisation" ns1:created="2026-06-22T07:57:45Z" ns1:href="http://gtr.ukri.org/gtr/api/projects/654EFF31-6BA5-434F-9A6E-2BBF53A5ED97" ns1:id="654EFF31-6BA5-434F-9A6E-2BBF53A5ED97"><ns1:links><ns1:link ns1:href="http://gtr.ukri.org/gtr/api/persons/C41CA957-5CC3-4A9B-A4F0-C875CA49CA3F" ns1:rel="PM_PER"/><ns1:link ns1:href="http://gtr.ukri.org/gtr/api/organisations/32C6C662-D2F6-4E0A-80B2-82F2327D018A" ns1:rel="LEAD_ORG"/><ns1:link ns1:href="http://gtr.ukri.org/gtr/api/organisations/32C6C662-D2F6-4E0A-80B2-82F2327D018A" ns1:rel="PARTICIPANT_ORG"/><ns1:link ns1:end="2025-03-30T23:00:00Z" ns1:href="http://gtr.ukri.org/gtr/api/funds/93EE0306-14B1-404B-9AE3-FC8671143FAB" ns1:rel="FUND" ns1:start="2024-01-01T00:00:00Z"/></ns1:links><ns2:identifiers><ns2:identifier ns2:type="RCUK">10095877</ns2:identifier></ns2:identifiers><ns2:title>ICAGE (Innovative CAntilever for Greener Electrification at the Global Centre of Rail Excellence)</ns2:title><ns2:status>Closed</ns2:status><ns2:grantCategory>Collaborative R&amp;D</ns2:grantCategory><ns2:leadFunder>Innovate UK</ns2:leadFunder><ns2:abstractText>**Innovative Cantilever for Greener Electrification (I-CAGE)**

The I-CAGE project is a forward-thinking initiative led by Furrer+Frey in partnership with the National Composite Centre. The primary objective is to develop and introduce a Composite cantilever designed for railway electrification, aiming to replace the more traditional and heavier steel cantilevers currently in use.

The motivation behind this project stems from the observed challenges in the current electrification design and installation processes. Predominantly, these challenges revolve around the high costs and carbon footprints associated with the transportation and installation of steel cantilevers.

Key features and benefits of the I-CAGE project include:

1. **Efficiency through Weight Reduction:** The Composite cantilever's design is inherently lighter than its steel counterpart. This weight advantage means that more cantilevers can be transported in a single journey, resulting in reduced transportation needs. Furthermore, the lighter weight simplifies the installation process, making it quicker and more resource-efficient.
2. **Adoption of Composite Material Technology:** A significant aspect of this project is the utilisation of advanced composite material technology. This not only ensures a lower carbon footprint during the manufacturing phase but also offers a more cost-effective production process.
3. **Durability and Maintenance:** One of the standout features of the I-CAGE design is its enhanced durability. The use of composite materials ensures that the cantilever has an extended lifespan, which, in turn, translates to reduced maintenance costs over its operational life.

Beyond the technical and environmental advantages, the I-CAGE project also underscores Furrer+Frey's commitment to the local region. This is evident from our collaborations in Wales and support for initiatives such as Women in Rail and our strategic sourcing of steel for electrification install from Wales. We have also collaborated with Coleg y Cymoedd and their electrification facilities to run many electrification train courses in South Wales.

In conclusion, the I-CAGE project is not merely about introducing a new product to the market; it's about redefining the standards of railway electrification. By focusing on innovative materials, sustainable practices, and local collaboration, Furrer+Frey aims to set new benchmarks in the industry, aligning with the objectives of both GCRE and the Welsh Government.</ns2:abstractText></ns2:project>