Remote-Controlled Angle Cock

The angle cock, one on each end of all cars and locomotives, connects the train line air between cars. Remote operation from the side of one car or the locomotive cab is envisioned. 

On-Board Monitoring and Control System (OBMCS)

Damage Assessment and Improved Inspection Systems

Under the FRA regulations, tank car owners are required to employ periodic structural integrity inspections including tank shell thickness tests and inspections of tank car welds. By limiting the required inspection to known areas of crack initiation, RSPA and FRA expect an increase in the...

Crash Energy Management Projects

Crash Energy Management The purpose of this project is to develop design data to improve the crashworthiness of passenger vehicles. A series of analyses and tests, involving different collision scenarios, are used to verify computer models and evaluate the possible changes of cab and car...

Conventional Equipment Projects

A series of full-scale quasi-static and dynamic tests are planned on conventional equipment of various designs to establish the baseline level of performance to loading conditions established based on a review of historical accident consequences or active field...

Advanced Tri-Coupler

The development of the Advanced Tri-Coupler was in response to the need for a knuckle coupler capable of performing both an air (for brake lines) and electrical (required for ECP brake systems) connection, as the process for coupling and uncoupling cars can be both...

Advanced Components

Sponsored by the Federal Railroad Administration, the Advanced Concept Train (ACT) is a demonstration train showcasing technologies to improve safety of switching operations and efficiency of train operations. The train consists of five test cars, which include an intermodal well car, a garbage...

Rolling Stock Overview

Research efforts in the Rolling Stock Equipment and Components Program area focus on the development and improvement of equipment defect detection and control. Both wayside and on-board detection and control systems offer diverse platforms for such research and demonstration. Early defect...

Fire Safety

Fire safety continues to be a high priority with the need for development of refined testing techniques and metrics of performance that can be applied by car manufactures’ and operating authorities for new equipment purchases. FRA will continue its efforts to develop enhanced passenger rail fire...

Emergency Preparedness

This subprogram research area is directed at the safe and efficient passenger rail car evacuations during various emergency scenarios. A goal is to determine, if time-based evacuation criteria can replace existing prescriptive rules on the number and configuration of emergency exits. Studies...