The first digital weighing complex for the sand supply system under locomotive wheel pairs was put into operation at the Chita Zabaykalsky branch of the LocoTech-Service enterprise, "Pervy Tekhnichesky" was informed by the group of companies' press service.
The new solution automates the adjustment of sand supply during scheduled TR-1 repairs. Measurement data is transmitted to the "Network Schedule" automated control system. Previously, the process was performed manually: measuring bags were hung on each sand pipe, then weighed on scales – the procedure took a long time.
The complex includes eight portable mobile modules – one for each locomotive sand pipe. Each module is equipped with digital sensors and a microprocessor unit. The system automatically measures the weight of the incoming sand and monitors compliance with standards. If the adjustment is performed with deviations, the system blocks data transmission and requires re-adjustment of the nozzles.
Measurement results are displayed in real time in the locomotive's diagnostic card and its electronic repair log. Manual data entry is excluded – this eliminates the influence of the human factor. The pilot operation of the complex lasted more than a month. Depot employees tested the system on 173 locomotive sections.
Read more on the topic:
- Without these parts, the repair of VL80 locomotives would be impossible: LocoTech launches unique production at the depot
- Laser profilometers instead of calipers: LocoTech learned to predict train wheel wear
- Locomotives Break Down Less Often: Vibration Diagnostics Helped LocoTech Reduce the Number of Bearing Failures