With the zentrak MODULAR DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM (MDS), voestalpine Railway Systems presents a modular diagnostic system that monitors rolling stock using a variety of sensor types. Depending on the application, infrared, fiber optic, acoustic, and/or optical sensors are used. This allows, for example, the detection of overheated axle bearing housings or overloading.

These are the advantages:

• Expandable functional structure
• Low power consumption
• Redundancy options for high availability
• Use of identical hardware and software components for different functions
• Simple combination and assignment of monitoring functions

Zentrak Modular Diagnostic System Monitoring Functions

Different sensor technologies can be combined:

Zentrak Visual Train Analysis

Brings industrial image processing directly to the rails. Cameras installed alongside the track capture trains to generate high-quality image data. Thanks to integrated infrared flash technology, the system delivers sharp images and reliable results both in daylight and at night.

Zentrak Hot Box Detection

Monitors the temperature of axle bearings. Overheated axle bearing housings indicate bearing defects, which in the worst case can lead to axle breakage and derailment.

Zentrak Hot Wheel Detection

It monitors the temperature of wheels and brakes. Significantly elevated readings indicate, for example, locked brakes. This can lead to flat spots on the tires, which in turn can damage infrastructure.

zentrak WHEEL DEFECT DETECTION

It measures the dynamic forces exerted by the wheel on the rail. These are usually caused by tread defects such as flat spots, but also by out-of-roundness or chipping, which lead to increased forces and loads.

Zentrak Weighing in Motion

It automatically measures the static wheel forces of passing vehicles. This allows for the determination of axle load, asymmetrical loading and overloading, vehicle weight, and train weight.

zentrak DRAGGING EQUIPMENT DETECTION

Detects dangling parts such as loose couplings, brake hoses or chains that could damage infrastructure.

zentrak ACOUSTIC MONITORING SENSOR

Detects bearing defects early through acoustic measurements on freight and passenger vehicles. Detection occurs at a stage without direct operational impact, such as reduced train speed. This allows for early maintenance planning and supports efficient wheelset management.

zentrak MODULAR DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM combines different measurement technologies under one system

Using identical hardware and software components reduces the need for spare parts, thus increasing system efficiency . Furthermore , the simple combination and linking of monitoring functions improves decision-making and information gathering.

This article was originally published by voestalpine Railway Systems.

Tags

Products & Services

source= https://railway-news.com/modular-diagnostic-system-for-greater-safety-on-the-railway-voestalpine/