Overhead Catenary Systems

We offer a complete solution for today’s light rail commuter rail systems

MAC designs, manufactures and supplies OCS material and equipment for today’s light rail, tram, electric trolley bus, streetcar and commuter rail systems. We offer a complete solution for our customers, whether they be the installer, operator or maintainer of the system.

Whether you are planning and building an overhead catenary system (OCS) or maintaining an existing one, MAC can provide the component parts and offer support at every stage

Catenary System Design

Overhead catenary systems power a significant percentage of the public transit networks used by millions of travelers every day. Here at MAC, we are specialists in designing, manufacturing, and supplying many of the components that make up these systems. No matter your needs, we offer a complete solution, beginning with custom component design and fabrication to meet your exact requirements.

Catenary System Engineering

Through a partnership with Kummler+Matter of Zurich, Switzerland, we are proud to offer the Adaptable Railway Cantilever System (ARCAS) for vehicle types including light rail, streetcars, trams, and trolley buses. Uniquely engineered to be compatible with many existing products, ARCAS makes it easy to implement conversions to your OCS.

Catenary System Manufacturing

Catenary systems are constructed of numerous different component parts, many of which we can engineer in-house at MAC. Thanks to our comprehensive machine shop and decades of expertise, you can relax knowing that your OCS components will have been designed, fabricated, assembled, and tested to the most exacting of standards.

Catenary System Installation

Our complete overhead catenary system service includes assistance with your installation if required. No matter the size or complexity of your system or the parts we are providing, we can work alongside your installation contractors, assist with any maintenance issues that may arise, and provide any advice that may be necessary to complete your installation.

Contact us to keep your customers moving with our complete range of OCS products

Contact us to keep your customers moving with our complete range of OCS products

To learn more about any of our overhead catenary system components or our complete OCS service for installers, operators, and maintainers, get in touch today to speak to a member of our expert team.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What products does MAC supply for overhead catenary systems in transit?
MAC manufactures a full range of OCS components, including contact wire supports, brackets, insulators, tensioning systems, and specialized fittings. All parts are designed for precise alignment, durability, and compliance with transit authority specifications.
Q: What’s the difference between overhead catenary and third rail systems?
Overhead catenary systems suspend energized contact wires above the track, supplying current via a pantograph. Third rail systems deliver power at track level through a side or top-contact conductor, typically used in urban or subway systems.
Q: What’s the difference between overhead catenary systems and overhead conductor rail (OCR) systems?
OCR systems replace the flexible contact wire with a rigid, enclosed conductor. This design offers reduced maintenance and better performance in tunnels or tight clearances.
Q: Does MAC offer solutions for energy efficiency in electrified transit systems?
Yes, we offer optimized conductor profiles, advanced tensioning systems, and regenerative braking integration support to reduce energy losses.
Q: Can MAC provide design consultation for new transit electrification projects?
Yes, our engineering team collaborates with clients from concept to commissioning, providing layout, component selection, and system optimization support.
Q: How does MAC approach electrification projects in tunnel environments?
We design for constrained spaces, incorporating low-clearance OCR, corrosion-resistant materials, and fire-retardant components to ensure safety and longevity.
Q: Do MAC Products support regenerative braking integration in rail systems?
Yes, we work with system integrators to ensure conductor systems and controls accommodate regenerative energy return without compromising equipment life.

Other Electrified Transit Products