Abstract: The present invention relates to a dropper (1) for use in connecting a conductor (5) and a catenary wire (6) in an overhead electric traction system comprising: a conductor clamp (2) for connecting the dropper (1) to the conductor (5), which comprises a moulded clamp body (7) that snaps onto the conductor (5); a dropper cord (3) connected to the clamp body (7) at the end opposite to that connecting with the conductor (5); and a catenary hook (4) for connecting the dropper cord (3) to the catenary wire (6), wherein the dropper cord (3) is flexible such that the application of a substantially vertically upwards force exerted by the conductor (5) to the conductor end of the dropper cord (3) causes the dropper cord (3) to bend thereby to prevent any upwards movement of the catenary wire (6).

Abstract: In a neutral section (1) for use with an overhead railway conducting line, which neutral section (1) is disposed between the ends of the conduction line when in use and comprises an insulator (10) to isolate the ends of the conductor line from each other, the neutral axis of the neutral section (1) being such that when the neutral section (1) is in use the neutral axis is aligned closely with the neutral axis of the conductors on its either side and the height of the insulator (10) is chosen so that the stiffness and the dynamic mass of the neutral section (1) closely match those of the conductors on its either side in both the vertical and horizontal planes.

Abstract: A tuned absorber (5A, 5B) for attachment to a railway rail (1) comprises a body (6) formed of elastomeric material and of at least one region of a first material, denser than the elastomeric material, located within the elastomeric material and forming an active mass (7m1, 7m2, 7m3). A member (8) of a second material denser than the elastomeric material is also located within the elastomeric material, adjacent to the active mass (7m1, 7m2, 7m3), for coupling to the rail (1) so as to provide a resonant surface against which the active mass (7m1, 7m2, 7m3) can vibrate. Alternatively, or in addition, a tuned absorber (5A, 5B) has a first active mass (7m1) and at least one further active mass (7m2, 7m3) arranged so as to be effectively coupled for vibration in a first frequency range and such that the or each further active mass (7m2, 7m3) is decoupled from the first active mass (7m1) for vibration in a second frequency range higher than the first.