COMET Industries, a leader in freight car component reconditioning, has been certified by the Association of American Railroads (AAR) to perform Increased Component Life (ICL) inspections.

This certification allows eligible bolsters and side frames to remain in service for up to 67 years, a 15-year extension beyond the standard 52-year limit. ICL certification is awarded only after a rigorous audit process, during which COMET demonstrated its ability to meet the highest inspection standards set forth in the AAR M214 field manual. The process includes magnetic particle testing and other extensive non-destructive testing (NDT) to ensure each qualifying component meets the requirements for extended service life.

Anthony Griffitt, Operations Manager at COMET Industries:

Achieving ICL certification expands what our team can offer customers by allowing qualifying components to continue in service that previously would have been removed. This milestone strengthens COMET’s role as a complete, one-stop solution for railcar repair needs, something that has always been central to our service philosophy. It also carries an environmental benefit by extending the life of existing materials that might otherwise end up in scrap yards, reducing waste and lessening the environmental impact of railcar maintenance.

With ICL certification, COMET customers gain a proven path to reduce replacement costs, avoid part shortages, and improve fleet sustainability. Components cast more than 45 years ago may qualify for the program, and COMET’s certified team can evaluate parts to determine eligibility.

This article was originally written by COMET Industries.

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