Low adhesion is reported to cost over £300m per year in the UK and recent industry (RSSB) trials have demonstrated that in low adhesion conditions variable rate sanders can provide dramatic reductions in stopping distance over single rate systems.
At Unipart Rail we have developed the Mk3 SmartSander - a variable rate sanding system capable of delivering the optimum quantity of sand to the rail based on speed, braking, wheel slip and traction demands to dramatically improve traction and stopping distances. It also uses a non-latching isolation switch for the driver to isolate the variable rate sander.
The latest version will deliver up to 4kg per minute to each rail to provide greater adhesion at higher speeds in line with the latest studies and trials results. The MK3 version has added condition based monitoring service to assist in functionality, maintenance and data gathering.
Now with CBM functionality
Through working with Unipart Rail company, Instrumentel, we have introduced Condition Based Monitoring sensors to enable real-time monitoring. This includes:
- Level of sand in the sand box
- Air pressure level
- Electro-pneumatic valve correct operation - valves open and shut when required
- Quantity of sand delivered with time and GPS position.
- System inputs, e.g. brake demand, driver demand etc.
This means that the system can be constantly monitored, replenished and calibrated to keep the system working to the fullest capacity
Stand-out competitive advantage
The SmartSander system is designed to be robust and reliable. Sand delivery quantities are metered using reliable electro-pneumatic valves which supply the correct quantity of air to the sand valves. This allows electrical systems to be mounted further from the harsh environment near the track and wheel sets.
And with 900 units in active service, the SmartSander is already working to reduce that £300m cost. For more information, contact darryl.key@unipartrail.com