While at work yesterday I was able to view the SPENO rail grinding in action. Approx 3 km's of rail had been replaced due to risk of vertical split head. Once the rail is replaced it is ground to the correct profile to reduce both rail and wheel wear. The only problem is the grinder tends to grind not just rail but anything in it's path including electrical cables connected to the rails. You will also notice the grinder is spraying water in it's path, this is too reduce the risk of fire from the sparks of the grinding wheels.
The picture was taken at Homebush on the up mainline which heads into Sydney. Homebush is approx 12 km's west of the city. You will notice the track is concrete and also has superelevation.
I will try and get some shots next time, this picture was taken by a signaller that works at the signalling complex in Homebush. We have a program to rail grind the whole network in a cyclic pattern to reduce wheel wear for operators.
Paul, Would you beleave each individual rail grinder is powered by electric motors!!Was working with this unit between Bargo & Tahmor last year & got to talking with a fitter who was changing out a couple of burnt out motors,due to the abrasive dust the motors dont last too long!!I asked why they didnt have hydraulic powered motors (logical as everything else is hyd. powered,tamper's,vibrater's,TLM's,ballast cleaners, etc),well logic reigns again,hydraulic fluid under pressure is flamable.Get a slight leak under that unit & woosh up she'd go.Just a little tid-bit. Jason. [ 10. February 2004, 08:40: Message edited by: JASON ]
THe rail grinder is no used on every super possession here in Sydney, It is impressive to watch although the signalling discipline would rather see it elsewhere due to the ability of the grinder too cut through signalling cables attached to the track
Most of the track in the USA still has wooden ties. How much mileage of rail systems in Australia are now concrete? Boxcab E50
