Advantages:

• Lower Profile: Conductor rails require less vertical clearance, making them ideal for tunnels and urban environments where space is a constraint.

• Cost-Effective: Installation can be cheaper than a full overhead line system.

• Reliability: They are less susceptible to wind damage and certain types of weather events compared to overhead lines.

Disadvantages:

• Safety Concerns: The exposed live rail poses a significant safety risk to personnel and wildlife.

• Weather Sensitivity: Conductor rails are highly susceptible to issues caused by ice and snow, which can form an insulating layer and disrupt power supply.

• Speed Limitations: Due to the mechanical impact of the current collector shoes at gaps, conductor rail systems are generally limited to speeds of around 100 mph (161 km/h).

• Maintenance: While installation can be cheaper, maintenance requires careful management to prevent power loss and system failures.