SKF and Sécheron are developing a bogie monitoring system to be launched later this year, with an integrated sensor in the SKF bearing unit capturing speed, temperature and vibration data to ascertain bearing and wheel condition. A Sécheron data acquisition unit will perform analysis and communication with the train control system.
Designed to replace hammers, the K-TEX emergency exit system from Pickersgill-Kaye breaks both panes of a double-glazed window when a handle mounted alongside the aperture is pulled. To prevent misuse, the handle is located behind a sliding cover which activates an alarm when opened.
Silvertown UK Ltd has redesigned the Silentbloc ball joint used in vehicle anti-roll bar systems to give a longer service life. Retaining the existing size and parameters of radial, conical and torsional stiffness, the new design features an improved elastomer profile to reduce stress in the rubber element and permit better articulation.
A Freeway asset and fleet management system has been supplied to the Midland Metro light rail system in Great Britain to manage the routine maintenance of vehicles and infrastructure. The PC-based system incorporates a defect reporting system to log failures and other items requiring the attention of maintenance personnel.
Hellenic Railways Organisation has ordered 30 sets of rubber/metal side bearer springs from Trelleborg Industrial, to be fitted to Class A500 and A450 diesel-electric locos during refurbishment. Trelleborg Industrial was formed in April 2000 following the amalgamation of Metalastik Ltd of Great Britain and Novibra of Sweden.
Alstom Transport Service UK is now offering the EMFaCIS electro-magnetic metal fatigue and crack inspection service (RG 3.99 p174) on a commercial basis. Suitable for rail and welds as well as rolling stock components such as wheels and axles, EMFaCIS has achieved full compliance with Railtrack Railway Group Standards.
Interior lighting from Teknoware is being installed in Stockholm metro cars undergoing refurbishment by Adtranz between 2000 and 2002 at a rate of 50 trains a year. Control electronics incorporate the Servisafe
