Opportunity/Problem:

There is a need to eliminate train crew injuries that occur during the application and releasing of freight car hand brakes. Currently, an individual must apply a significant force to properly apply the...

Opportunity/Problem:

Shared freight and passenger train operation is a different and demanding service environment for both vehicles and track.  With mixed operations, track is subjected to a much wider range of...

Opportunity/Problem:

Repair welds in critical areas of side frames and bolsters must undergo full furnace re-heat treatment.  Welds in non-critical areas can form undesirable microstructures because of high cooling...

Opportunity/Problem:

There is a need to develop analytical capabilities to simulate longitudinal dynamics and train operations to support FRA’s mission of railroad safety improvement and compliance of operating rules. The...

Opportunity/Problem:

Studies, by both industry and academia, have shown that it is not practical to use ZigBee-based Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN) for monitoring an entire train. The resulting network is too large, with a...

Designing Tank Cars for Normal Service and Accident Forces

A better understanding of the in-service loads tank cars are subjected to is needed for several reasons. Severe loads seen in normal service are responsible for numerous incidents of...

Critical Flaw Size

The AAR Manuals (referenced in US DOT hazmat regulations) set forth guidelines for tank car structural integrity determination and design parameters.  These guidelines are very general in nature and their use in tank...

FRA R&D and C3RS

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Full-size Locomotive Cab:

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CTIL's Program Vision

Advance...