ABB won an order worth about $21 million from AlpTransit Gotthard AG (ATG) to provide a ventilation system for the Gotthard Base Tunnel in Switzerland, which will carry trains beneath the Alps.

It is the world's largest railway tunnel project, with a route length of 35 miles. In total the project's network of tunnels, shafts and passages equals 94 miles. The order was booked in the first quarter of 2011.

Technical rail systems are scheduled to be installed and operational by 2017. Once completed, an estimated 200 to 250 trains per day will travel through the tunnel.

Together with TLT Turbo GmbH (Germany), ABB represents a consortium that was awarded the project, which is worth about $45 million. The consortium is responsible for developing, producing and installing what will be the largest tunnel ventilation system ever built, providing fresh air for the entire tunnel network. ABB technologies will ensure it operates at the highest levels of reliability and energy efficiency.

ABB’s scope of supply includes medium- and low-voltage switchgear, other electrical equipment, 800xA control systems, sensors and other digital field devices to measure air flow and temperature; drive systems and other automation equipment. ABB is also responsible for cable design and delivery, as well the installation, assembly and commissioning of the other components.