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A theme cutting across virtually all the R&D program elements is the use of sensors, computers, and digital communications to collect, process, and disseminate information to improve the safety, security, and operational effectiveness of railroads. Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS)...
T-18, the new FRA Gage Restraint Measurement System (GRMS) vehicle procured in May 2004, is a state-of-the-art deployable GRMS vehicle which utilizes a 5th split railroad axle to laterally load the head of both adjacent rails of railroad track in order to measure rail motion under a...
In November, 2000, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) began operating high speed research car T-16 to investigate methods for providing a safer and smoother ride for passenger and freight trains traveling at higher speeds. FRA's Office of Research and Development uses T-16 to study the...
The Federal Railroad Administration developed GradeDec, a highway-rail grade crossing investment analysis tool, to provide grade crossing investment decision support. GradeDec provides a full set of standard benefit cost metrics for a rail corridor, a region, or an individual...
Highway-railroad grade crossings are intersections where a highway crosses a railroad at-grade. They are also called level crossings in other countries such as Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. To avoid collisions, warning/control devices are required at grade crossings just...
The Track/Train Interaction Program addresses the safety implications arising from the dynamic interaction between track and train. Among other things, this program will
Improve analytical and experimental methods for assessing derailment risk due to anomalous interactions of track...This project has two focus areas. The first provides support for operation of the jointly funded FAST at Transportation Technology Center (TTC). It includes the operation of the heavy axle load train by which performance of sub-grade, ballast...
FRA will continue to support the development of rail steels that are more resistant to defect formation under repeated loading from train traffic. Studies in this area will focus on factors which control rail life and performance, including growth of...
This effort is aimed at producing better and faster methods for detecting internal rail and joint bar defects and developing automated methods for better and more consistent interpretation of rail defect measurement data. Plans include expansion of a Rail Defect Test...
Track and infrastructure failure is the second leading cause of train derailments in the U.S. Incorrect interaction between moving vehicles and the track is a common cause of derailments. Strategic priorities for this program are:
Develop track inspection technologies that detect...