LPS
Keeping the World on Track
This article first appeared in the Railway-News magazine, Issue 1 2023.
Minimise the impacts of slip-slide conditions and keep performance, maintenance and safety on track.
The fall of leaves from nearby trees makes autumn a dangerous time for rail vehicles. Rail traffic is interrupted as low friction stops trains from accelerating and braking normally, leading to severe delays and accidents. Coefficient of Friction (COF) levels are significantly affected when leaves are compressed into the rails by train wheels and become an oily film on both sides. Train wheels slip and block more easily, creating flat spots on wheels that can result in high maintenance bills.
LPS products help rail networks detect and improve the COF levels of a slip-slide environment and minimise the impacts of weather events to provide safe braking and stopping distances and reduce autumn maintenance costs.
Slip Away from Your Safety Issues
Designed to deliver quality results, the LPS LaserTrain deep cleans the railhead with a laser, securing optimal COF for drivers and 24 hours of slip-slide- free conditions. Improved friction levels prevent train wheels from blocking, which reduces the number of flat spots – resulting in less maintenance, better punctuality and happier passengers!
The technology is the most sustainable rail cleaning option in the market today, with the lowest long-term running costs and CO2 emissions, through its use of pure energy and no by-products. Key features include:
- Control system: the control system is easy to operate and combines all the hardware and software for an autonomous clean, so there’s no need to hire any extra hands. GIS data enables the system to switch automatically between modes and avoid hitting rail obstacles.
- Laser safety: the system is safe for use without any protective equipment. It will automatically shut off at low speeds to avoid damage to the railhead.
- Client dashboard: to keep track of progress LPS clients can access details like the live position of the train, where it has been, slip slide results and miles cleaned.
