Sand consist changes for improved track circuit performance

RSSB, on behalf of the rail industry, is seeking to carry out research on sand consists used in train mounted sanders to improve performance with track circuits to enable better management of low adhesion for braking and traction.

This Expression of Interest (EoI) invites interested parties to provide information on products and testing to support RSSB in the development of this research.

The Adhesion Research Group has identified the need to carry out research into enhancing the electrical conductivity of sand used in on train sanders to improve the compatibility with various types of track circuits, in both clean and contaminated rail head scenarios at the same time fulfilling the primary function to improve wheel/rail adhesion.

RSSB has carried out significant work to prove the braking effectiveness of different sander configurations in low adhesion conditions. This complementary piece of work is to look at the consist of the sand to investigate how adding conductive materials preserve track circuit detection capability when using sanders on track circuits particularly where the rail head is contaminated.

RSSB are inviting expressions of interest from companies involved in designing/manufacturing/testing railway adhesion sand who have existing products and capability in this area or are interested in developing new products and capability.

Please confirm your interest in this project via email to Tanja.Odinsen@rssb.co.uk by 12:00 on 03/02/2020