ultimate rail oct. 2015 special issue north america

R A I L W A Y I N T E R C H A N G E | E X H I B I T I O N M A G A Z I N EO C T. 2 0 15

North

AmericA

Focus on USA,

Canada and Mexico

special edition

Track morewith lessNew subsidiaryFrauscher Sensor Technology USA Inc. founded

Products for North AmericaProven and new products meet specific market requirements

Customer StoriesFirst projects reveal big potential

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 5RAILWAY INTERCHANGE | EXHIBITION MAGAZINE

Track more with lessEasier access to the rail information you needGenerating more relevant information with less effort: This is what the future of train tracking will look like. Frauscher Sensor Technology is all about making it easier for railway operators in North America and around the world to obtain the information they need.

Having founded our own subsidiary in the USA, one of the primary challenges facing North Amer-ican railroads is the struggle to retrieve vital information when and where it’s needed. The mission of Frauscher Sensor Technology USA Inc. is to help making railroading safer and more efficient.

Frauscher is definitely the last word in wheel sensors and axle counters with excellent technolo-gy, dynamic and customer relevant innovation and an international perspective that is reflected in their service and product development. The products and service are totally customer driven with adaptable and flexible solutions as needed for specific market requirements. I believe Frauscher will set a high standard in reliability when providing solutions to the railway industry in North Amer-ica.

To learn more about all options for your railroads and applications, have a closer look on the ar-ticles within this magazine and do not hesitate to contact us directly if any questions come up.

Sincerely, Vivek Caroli

Vivek Caroli Managing Director of

Frauscher Sensor Technology USA Inc.

Frauscher Sensor Technology USA Inc.

300 Carnegie Center | Suite 320 Princeton, New Jersey 08540 | USA T: +1 609 285-5492 E: [email protected] www.frauscher.us

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“Focusing on our activities within the North American railway business we have learned that there is big interest for using train detection solutions apart from track circuits. After the foun-dation of our own subsidiary we can now provide high quality service to customers who want to learn more about the wide range of applications they can realize by implementing Frauscher axle counters and wheel sensors.

Frauscher USA will receive on-time support from the headquarters in Austria to provide op-timized and perfectly individualized solutions based on leading technology and ongoing de-velopments.”

The North American railroad industry is unlike any other in the world. It faces its own unique challeng-es and, therefore, requires its own unique solutions. As a global pioneer in train detection, Frauscher Sensor Technology USA Inc. will specifically help the industry to face these challenges head on.

Reliable customer service to cover all railroading needs

The Austrian based company faces the evolving challenges of the industry with an own sales and support team on site. A new training center and enhanced field service support will provide the quality of customer care that Frauscher is known for throughout the world.

“Our first priority is helping the customer. Everything else comes second. We pride ourselves on reliability, both with our products and our people. We deliver highly-available, us-er-friendly products within the timeframe they’re needed. In summary, we aim to help North American railroaders track more with less”, says Vivek Caroli, MD of Frauscher US.

Individual solutions for all railroad applications

Frauscher has already made its mark on each coast, optimiz-ing a staging yard in Baltimore and modernizing a signaling system in Alaska. The product portfolio has been custom-ized for the North American market, enabling the company to meet the specific requirements of each application. The product range boasts the scalability and flexibility to do even more.

From freight, passenger and mass transit railroads to yards, dark territory and crossings, Frauscher wheel sensors and axle counters can integrate with advanced technology solu-tions, such as Communication-based Train Control technol-ogy, to improve train detection and trigger track side equip-ment. The ease of installation and integration, flexible product design and low life cycle costs will fit seamlessly into the de-mands of the North American railroad industry.

Passenger Freight Urban & Mass Transit Industrial

Michael Thiel CEO

Frauscher Sensor Technology

Frauscher in North America


Individual solutions for all railroad applicationsAll over the world Frauscher products convince by properties such as high uptime and reliability, low main-tenance and life cycle costs, highest safety and precision or maximum flexibility. Due to modular designs and ongoing, experience-based developments Frauscher components can be implemented even in abso-lutely individually designed set ups. On that base Frauscher axle counters and wheel sensors enable the realization of a wide range of applications under specific circumstances and requirements in a broad field of railroad areas.

Train Detection

Besides the occupancy status of a track section, Frauscher axle counters also provide in-formation such as direction, number or speed of axles and wagons.

•Redundant & reliable Backup system for CBTC

•Accurate identification and protection of Switching Points

•Cost-effective safety improvement of Passing Sidings

Yards

The simplicity and flexibility of installing, integrating and op-erating Frauscher wheel sen-sors and axle counters makes it easy for cost-effectively mod-ernization of all yard applica-tions.

•Switching point protection at depots, flat and hump yards

•Reduced shunting & shifting

•Speed measurement at hump yards

Crossings

Frauscher axle counters and wheel sensors provide a wide range of options for activating/deactivating or resetting grade crossing protection systems.

•Applicable for Grade and Diamond Crossings

•Detection points at various distances

•Constant warning time

•Positive route confirmation

Dark Territory

To cover track spanning up to 400 miles with reliable train detection systems, all com-ponents have to ensure max-imum uptime whilst requiring minimum maintenance.

•Islands of CTC for Train Detection

•Safe and effective Switching Point Protection even in remote areas

•Improved safety and efficiency at Passing Sidings

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Using Frauscher components enables accurate triggering and effective operation of appropriate railway operations in a safe and cost effective way, based on:

High uptime and reliability

The combination of different inductive operating principles and robust design guarantee high availability, even when sub-jected to extreme mechanical, electromagnetic, climatic or environmental interference.

Low maintenance

As no active electronic components are mounted to the track, the system also remains highly reliable on low-traffic lines. The only preventive maintenance, that our wheel sen-sors require is an inspection every two years.

Quick and easy installation

All Frauscher wheel sensors can be installed, dismounted and replaced very easily without drilling, using the patented Frauscher rail claw. Automated calibration and pluggable ca-ble connections shorten the time of staff spent in hazardous areas.

Low power consumption

Our wheel sensor operates on low power at just 2 x 40 mW. In addition to low operation costs, this enables the use of so-lar panels in remote areas and batteries for mobile equipment power supply.

High precision

Frauscher wheel sensors, driven by an advanced dual-sys-tem architecture, detect the exact location of a wheel using a highly sophisticated algorithm.

Individual solutions for all railroad applicationsHighly precise and reliable triggering of track side equipmentedReliable and safe triggering of track side equipment for efficient asset management assumes the ac-curate collection of information about traversing axles, speed, direction, wheel diameter, wheel center position and more. Frauscher has developed a portfolio of products to enable the precise provision of appropriate data for applications on all kind of railroads.

RSR110 Wheel Sensors provide an open interface and can be easily integrated into any customer’s operation. Each Frauscher wheel sensor comes with full documentation that allows users to seamlessly install and configure sensors to their exact speci-fications and implement them into their downstream systems. Technical service, engineering support and product training en-sure a perfect integration for optimized triggering of track side equipment.

The RSR110 Wheel Sensor Family enables the accurate triggering of track side equipment, such as AEI Card Reader, Vision Monitoring, Hot Box Detection, Wheel Flat Detection, Lubricators or Warning Systems.

RSR110 mounted on track


Frauscher Axle Counter: FAdCFunctional modularity, flexible scalability and an Ethernet-based software interface permit a wide range of configurations. The savings on space, energy and investment costs increase with project scale thanks to state-of-the-art communications technologies.

For example, the operation of small, centralized systems is just as possible as the implementation of complex systems.

Benefits of the FAdC

•Functional modularity

•Flexible scalability

•Ethernet-based interface

•Flexible configuration

•Easy implementation

Frauscher Diagnostic System FDSLow life cycle costs due to preventative maintenance

Maintenance and error rectification in signaling systems form the basis for safe, reliable and punctual railway operation. The Frauscher Diagnostic System FDS enables easy and even re-mote maintenance of the whole axle counting system FAdC. This means that additional maintenance work can be avoided through preventative measures. Thus it helps to minimize the time spent on site carrying out periodic maintenance. Important information, such as the quiescent current of the wheel sensor, can be read from a central service area and on various devices.

The FSE software protocol is already in use at MTA Mary-land’s staging yard in Baltimore – please see case study, page nine

The possibility of faults occurring is already identified in advance and prevented by means of preventative measures. However, in the event that a fault does in fact occur, the effective disrup-tion time is considerably reduced by carrying out a simple error analysis and targeted error rectification. What is more, Frauscher also offers personal support via a remote maintenance service. The availability of the axle counting and wheel detection systems is therefore increased further by using the Frauscher Diagnostic System FDS, whilst maintenance costs are minimized.

FSE has become a standard software protocolModern signaling systems require a high degree of integration of all sub-systems and therefore high-performance interfaces. An efficient exchange of data between the sub-systems can only be achieved with software interfaces and Frauscher has developed the Frauscher Safe Ethernet (FSE) for this purpose.

The FSE protocol is the ideal solution for integration into systems without their own software protocol. It has been developed es-pecially for a very wide range of applications in the field of wheel detection and axle counting. More than 10 FSE implementa-tions are already completed, projects like Mining Port Vostoch-nji in Russia, Level Crossings in Egypt or also Transnordestina in Brazil having the FSE in use.

Frauscher Advanced Counter: FAdC

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Wheel Sensor Family RSR110Having learned about increasing interest in high-quality wheel sensors with an open interface in the North American and further railway markets was the impetus behind the development of the new RSR110. With this Frauscher is breaking new ground in its product strategy: in future, the company will offer this high-quality sensor with an open analogue interface alongside the established wheel detection systems. The feedback on the presentation of the product during InnoTrans 2014 and the numerous enquiries are already confirming that this was the right decision.

Simple integration by means of an open interfaceVarious projects frequently present special requirements that can only be met by designing individual solutions. The wheel sensor RSR110 was developed to simplify the realization of corresponding applications, such as described on pages 4 and 5.

It is supplied without an evaluation board, and its open ana-logue interface enables easy implementation into the custom-er’s specifically-developed system electronics. Furthermore, this guarantees significant savings in terms of the hardware and space required.

Innovations for North American RailroadsHaving released the RSR110 based on international ex-periences and requests, Frauscher is answering special needs of North American Railroads by developing a whole sensor family based on this new model.

RSR110_002The RSR110_002 is equipped with only one sensor sys-tem and can thereby be integrated very easily into existing systems. It provides a customized solution for applications where only a traversing axle as to be detected.

WSCThe Wheel Sensor Signal Converter eases the basic evalu-ation of the analogue sensor signal. It supports both, sys-tem integrators and operators in planning and operating new systems when realizing various applications using the RSR110 sensor family.

Precise data and additional informationThe analogue signal from the RSR110 can be interpreted pre-cisely in line with specific requirements. The flexible interface facilitates the realization of a very wide range of applications. By way of example, these may include axle counting, wheel diameter calculation, speed measurement, hot box and flat wheel detection, as well as triggering.


Whittier TunnelThe Alaska Railroad Corporation (ARRC) decided to modern-ize the signaling system of the Anton Anderson Memorial tunnel, better known as Whittier Tunnel. The key point was to replace existing track circuits, which were deemed unreliable having less then optimal availability. Those had to be replaced with a more reliable and robust system, that would not be affected by water logging, moisture, fouled track, dirt crust or other contaminants within the tunnel.

Solution

An evaluation by Burns Engineering, Inc. recommended the use of modern Axle Counters. The Frauscher Advanced Counter, FAdC, was chosen. The functionality of the FAdC is to provide

a track clear/track occupied indication for the one track section that covers the Whittier Tunnel. This system has a proven track record to provide the expective performance under all wheater conditions with highly reduced maintenance work. FAdC com-plies with the highest safety standards defined by the SIL 4 re-quirements.

Benefit

FAdC stands out with the ease of its installation procedure and the simplicity with which it is integrated into the existing MircoLok interlocking system. Precise and safe diagnostic options can be accessed remotely. The life-cycle- costs are further desirable benefits of this solution.

Project Details

At 13,300 ft. the Whittier Tunnel is the second longest highway tunnel and longest combined rail and highway tunnel in North America. It is the only land access to Whittier and an important cruise ship and freight port. About 50,000 vehicles passing the tunnel per month make a reliable monitoring sys-tem absolute-ly vital. The project solution is to provide train detection, so that safe signaling may be provided to regulate the two way train traffic and car traffic that is plying over the one single embed-ded track.

The FAdC will interface with the interlocking and energize a relay with its signal. This vital signal emulates the input from the track circuit in all interlocking functionality.

Stories: First solutions in operationFrauscher axle counters, wheel detection systems and wheel sensors can be found in use in more than 70 countries all over the world. The highest level of quality and flexibility enable the implemen-tation of highly reliable safety-relevant applications in accordance with the approval regulations of individual countries.

With some of its first projects in Whittier, Alaska and at MTA Bal-timore completed, Frauscher is confident that its product range will gain favor with freight and passenger railroads as well as transit and metro lines throughout North America. Basic bene-fits of Frauscher products, such as ease of installation and inte-gration, high flexibility in project design and low life cycle costs have thereby been proven yet under local conditions. The market seems highly interested in using advanced technology solutions in combination with wheel sensors and axle counters to make railroading safer and more efficient. Trains pass remote areas before reaching the Whittier Tunnel

Whittier Tunnel: One track for trains and cars

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Staging yard BaltimoreThe Baltimore North Avenue Yard is a staging yard where trains are parked and maintained. A manual system enables train drivers to stop at both entries and switch tracks to de-termine their route within the yard. The operation is tedious and time consuming. To automate the functionality and mod-ernize the yard the first task was to use the latest technology for reliable and precise train detection. In addition the benefits of such a system were defined as inventory management by keeping track of the number of axles in the yard for optimum utilization of the facility.

Solution

MTA Maryland’s strategy for yard modernization introduces the latest proven signalling technology to the North American railway market. The Frauscher Advanced Counter FAdCi was specifically designed for the versatile use in industrial environ-ments, shunting- and staging yards. It enables train detection up to speeds of 50 mph without the undue maintenance re-quirements and downtimes of other methodologies.

Benefits

The FAdCi also enables, the accumulation and monitoring of a variety of additional information. The options of either us-ing software or hardware inter-faces, guarantees easy imple-mentation in existing infrastructures. Further, it will contribute to low maintenance cycles in the yard as well as low life cycle costs and ensures that the customer is empowered for inde-pendent installation, modifications and maintenance.

Project Details

In order to enable train drivers to use the push-button system from each side of the yard, the train detection had to be im-plemented through a decentralized system. The information from the various Wheel Detectors throughout the yard were gathered in two trackside bungalows that housed the indoor equipment.

The two bungalows were connected via Ethernet connection so the evaluation board AEBi data from both housings were consolidated in one of them. Here the FAdCi is connected to the interlocking via its software interface.

This guarantees the fail safe transmission of various data concerning the track clear/occupied status as well as infor-mation about the siding’s utilization and further data to the overall monitoring system. The Axle Counter and the inter-locking are communicating via Frauscher’s own software pro-tocol Frauscher Safe Ethernet.

Stories: First solutions in operation

Trial system during test phase Assembly team on-site

MTA Maryland uses the FAdC


The leader in wheel detection and axle counting technologyThe complete spectrum of services offered by Frauscher en-compasses both, individual application design and project de-sign, as well as the provision of support for installation and com-missioning. A comprehensive training program ensures that operators are able to install the systems independently, oper-ate them on a long-term basis, maintain them and even con-figure them where necessary. This guarantees maximum inde-pendence from the system supplier and minimal life cycle costs.

Service and quality build trustFrauscher demonstrates the highest quality standards in both production and in its service & support. Ninety percent of all cus-tomers are regular customers, which include leading signaling technology integrators. For Frauscher, optimized customer care

also includes comprehensive service from the initial content right through to aftercare. The company ensures that it maintains di-rect contact with the users of its products. This ensures contin-uous technical support, as well as high quality of installation and operation of all the components being used.

Independent and R&D drivenFrauscher maintains its flexibility by being a fully independent company. This enables them to enter into research and develop-ment alliances with system integrators and operators all over the world at any time. Frauscher components can be integrated into any system without any restriction or exclusivity issues!

With its own Research and Development Department, ongoing research projects and focus on different key areas of research, Frauscher stands for constant innovation in the signaling field. For more than 25 years, the international research team and the associated efforts within the company have grown continuously.

At Frauscher, more than 10% of turnover is invested in research and development every year. 100,000 sensors in use throughout the world, and various test systems, continuously supply new findings to the company’s headquarters in Upper Austria. Based on this feedback, market-specific and customer-specific require-ments and current research results, Frauscher components and products are constantly being developed further. While region-specific solutions are drawn up with international partners, com-pletely new products are created in various research projects, in-cluding products for which the method of operation lies outside inductive sensor technology.

About Frauscher Sensor Technology GlobalFrauscher Sensortechnik GmbH is a leader in technology for inductive sensors in the rail sector. Since 1987, Frauscher has been devel-oping, producing and supplying in-ductive sensor technology, wheel detection and axle counting sys-tems for an extremely wide range of applications. The independent, medium-sized company places particular value upon continuous innovation, maximum quality and above-average customer focus.

Frauscher Sensor Technology Headquarters in Austria

The Frauscher R&D Department is constantly growing

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Frauscher HQs, Austria

Frauscher Subsidiaries

Frauscher Projects (exemplary)

International TrialsTest installations are provided free of charge to verify the reliability of the system under the customer-specific basic conditions. On the other hand, this provides the crucial basis for product optimization and new developments. What is more, field tests form a significant component of the CENELEC process.

A range of adaptations can be made on the basis of the environmental conditions that were analyzed during the trials. Wheth-er it concerns special structural situations, rail profiles, substructures, sleepers, vehicle’s electromagnetic environment, unusual wheel flanges, bogie geometries or magnetic rail brakes, Frauscher components offer ample scope for all eventualities.

Successfully used in over 70 countriesFrauscher axle counters, wheel detection systems and wheel sensors can be found in use in more than 70 countries all over the world. The highest level of quality and flexibility enable the implementation of highly reliable safety-relevant applications in ac-cordance with the approval regulations of individual countries. Having solved various requirements under a wide range of envi-ronmental, infrastructural and legal conditions has increased Frauschers problem-solving expertise to an unique level.

About Frauscher Sensor Technology Global

Frauscher has gained broad experience in handling different operational requirements and managing technical challenges, such as extreme temperatures, high vibration levels, electromagnetic interference or flooding.

Frauscher on-site:North AmericaLatin AmericaUnited KingdomPolandCISIndiaAsiaMalaysiaAustralia


Learn more about our products and company. Visit our website www.frauscher.us

Wheel Detection Forum 2015The Wheel Detection Forum 2015 has been a full success. More than 200 signaling experts from all over the world joined the event to discuss latest innovations on proven and future technology.

The presentations of more than 17 speakers, particularly from the field of research and development can be found online at www.wheeldetectionforum.com

(Up)Dates

Exhibitions

30.11.2015 – 08.11.2015 NT Expo Sao Paulo, BRA | Stand 440

24.11.2015 – 26.11.2015 AusRAIL PLUS Melbourne, AUS | Stand 196

03.04.2016 – 06.04.2016 ASLRRA Convention Washington DC, USA

ultimate rail oct. 2015 special issue north america

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