Cooperation between Plasser & Theurer and PJM:the technology leader is equipping its track maintenance machines with additional digital functions from PJM
Plasser & Theurer, the global technology leader in track laying machinery, relies on the advantages of PJM‘s monitoring solutions.
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Key features include automatic brake testing, brake monitoring, and real-time axle bearing temperature monitoring. These digital train functions complement Plasser & Theurer‘s comprehensive Datamatic and tmOS digitalisation
solutions. Together, they enhance the safety, efficiency, and availability of the vehicles.
Three years ago, the first multi-part track laying machine was equipped with a PJM monitoring system. It is a BDS 2000 E³ ballast management system into which additional material conveyor and hopper units can be integrated as required.
“With this first prototype, Plasser & Theurer is testing an innovative solution for monitoring the braking system when transporting special vehicle combinations. The aim is to provide train drivers with accurate real-time information, enabling them to intervene promptly. This represents a further step towards greater operational safety and efficiency,” says Bernhard Antony, Head of Strategic Product Development at Plasser & Theurer.
The world’s only full-service provider for the construction and maintenance of railway tracks focuses on cost efficiency, a long vehicle service life, innovation, reliability, and the continuous development of specialised vehicles. Plasser & Theurer were impressed by the unique functions of the PJM system for real-time monitoring of axle bearings and brake components, as these add value by increasing safety and operational efficiency.
Track maintenance machines and their components, such as brakes, are subject to high levels of stress in the challenging everyday environment of railway operations. However, the vehicles must be highly available due to the limited time available for use on tracks. This system facilitates the exchange of status and logistics information between worksites, enabling a swift transition to the next site. The proven axle bearing generator provides a high-level, autonomous power supply during track runs or transfer travel; it has been adapted to specific machine conditions in collaboration with Strategic Product Development at Plasser & Theurer. The PJM system is a functional addition to the Datamatic and tmOS systems from Plasser & Theurer. Integrating the PJM subsystems into Plasser & Theurer’s full-scale digitalisation solution in the future will complete the comprehensive package, enabling railway construction companies to make greater use of such subsystems.
Comprehensive brake monitoring
Brake monitoring detects a wide range of data,including information on brake functionality, potential operating errors, defective or overloaded brakes, wear and tear, and the remaining functional life estimate. In critical situations, a
real-time warning is sent to the train driver. An other feature of the digital monitoring system is axle bearing temperature monitoring.
Automated brake testing for combined transport The vehicles are also equipped with an automatic brake testing system, which is the reference system in European freight transport. This system is compatible with track maintenance machines and special vehicles, making it ideal for use in mixed traffic. This system is also relevant for construction machinery, as these machines can be transported to their place of use either under own power or in a train formation. During transport and transfer travel in a train formation, there is no personnel on board to super vise. Nevertheless, the brakes must be checked.
All other monitoring functions complement the brake test.
“Our solutions are highly flexible and suitable not only for all types of freight wagons, but also for other vehicles in the train formation. The entire range of monitoring functions, including automatic brake testing, is available for all rail vehicles. We have established a benchmark in this regard as well,” says Günter Petschnig, CEO of PJ Monitor ing GmbH.
Cooperation on future functionalities: derailment diagnosis as an equipment option The two Austrian companies will continue to work together
The IDDS derailment diagnosis function will be offered on selected track maintenance machines. The IDDS (Informative Derailment Diagnosis System) was developed by PJM in close collaboration with FS LogistiX (formerly Mercitalia Intermodal) for use in freight transport. This application informs the train driver as quickly as possible via wireless in-train communication.
About Plasser & Theurer
The Austrian company is the global technology leader in track maintenance machines. It has achieved an export quota of 93%, with more than 17,800 heavy-duty machines in 110 countries. Its product portfolio includes machines
and systems for installing, modifying, and maintaining tracks and overhead lines. Plasser & Theurer is committed to investing in innovation and further development to enhance railway performance. Digitalisation is a key focus in this
regard. Smart apps, online access, and virtual tools provide users with relevant data on individual machines and entire fleets.
www.plassertheurer.com
About PJM
PJ Monitoring GmbH is part of PJM, an inter-nationally renowned specialist in rail transport systems. PJM has successfully implemented projects in 30 countries across six continents.
PJ Monitoring GmbH is a technology leader in the automation and digitalisation of rail freight transport thanks to its WaggonTracker system.
PJ Monitoring is the only company worldwide to provide an approved automatic brake test system. Further unique digital train functions include load weight monitoring, kingpin mon-itoring, and brake monitoring. PJ Monitoring
has developed Europe’s smartest freight train and has already received 12 international and national awards.
PJ Messtechnik GmbH is an ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing laboratory and conducts rail vehicle approval tests worldwide.
PJ Motion GmbH specialises in authorisation management in accordance with the 4th Railway Package and has extensive expertise in operational and vehicle integration of brake testing.
RCC (Railway Competence and Certification Ltd.) is an accredited inspection body in accordance with ISO/IEC 17065, specialising in certifications and safety assessments.
www.pjmonitoring.com/en/
