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Aerodynamic Effects of High-Speed Passenger Trains on Other Trains

With the onset of high-speed train operations in the United States, a study was undertaken to determine the possible aerodynamic effects of these trains have on their surroundings. The aerodynamic interaction between a high-speed train passing other trains, and its effects on the structural...

Non-Accident Release of Hazmat from Railroad Tank Cars: Training Issues

This report presents the results of a study to determine the extent to which written materials used on training railroad hazmat loaders are consistent with reading skills of the trainees. Data from four case study sites was used to conduct the analysis. Each site trains employees to load hazardous...

Tank Car Fatigue Crack Growth Test

Under the Tank Car Fatigue Crack Growth Test Program, the Association of American Railroads performed over-the-road tests, immpact tests, perturbed track tests, quasi-static and cyclic Mini-shaker Unit vertical coupler loading tests, and a 300,000-mile accelerated-rate Simuloader fatigue test on a...

Field Product Removal Methods for Tank Cars

The Association of American Railroads (AAR) has prepared a handbook entitled 'Field Product Removal Methods for Tank Cars' containing guidelines for use by responders to derailments involving tank cars. The handbook presents several general techniques for unloading damaged tank cars. Procedures for...

Chlorine Tank Car Puncture Resistance Evaluation

Experimental studies have been conducted to evaluate the relative puncture resistance of DOT 105A500W (chlorine) tank cars and DOT 112J340W (propane) tank cars equipped with 1/2-inch steel head shields. These studies included a series of full- and 1/5-scale tests conducted by the Association of...

Aluminum/Cold Temperature Tank Car Puncture Resistance Tests: Data Report

Puncture resistance testing of DOT Type 111 aluminum tank car heads was conducted at the Transportation Test Center (TTC), Pueblo, Colorado. Testing was conducted to determine the puncture resistance of a standard Type 111 aluminum tank car relative to that of DOT Type 112/114 and 105 steel tank...

Tank Car Accident Data Analysis

This report presents the results of a study of accidents involving railroad tank cars. The study is part of an overall effort to provide improved safety of rail transportation at reduced life-cycle costs. A major goal of the study is to provide a technical basis for development of improved safety...

Tank Car Frangible Disc Test

Tests were performed at the Transportation Test Center to evaluate the performance of various frangible disc designs, with respect to AAR Specification A5.03. Tests were also performed to determine the range of burst pressures and effect of temperature, creep, pressure surge, and corrosives on the...