Page 52 - วิศวกรรมสาร ปีที่ 74 ฉบับที่ 4 ตุลาคม - ธันวาคม 2564

Typical causes for problematic Track Sections and
Axle Counters as a solution
There are several factors that can contribute to a problematic track section in train detection.

 Climatic influences can cause frequent track circuit downtimes. This is especially true for
areas where there is a high risk of flooding. In countries like England, snow and ice on the
rails can also affect the working of TC – as can wet tunnels and overall high levels of
humidity like they are to be experienced in tropical regions like Thailand with periods of
intense rainfall. Also, in summer heat could affect the infrastructure in the future,
temperature reaching more than 42 degrees Celsius already today in some regions.
 Rusty rails on track sections that are not driven on regularly can decrease the reliability of
TC. Other causes for limited conductivity of rails can be deposits on the track. These range
from damp leaves to litter.
 Electromagnetic interference (EMI) can also cause availability issues on track sections
with TC.
 TC technology uses insulated rail joints to separate individual track sections. This creates
mechanically neuralgic areas in the track. If high levels of mechanical stress on this
regions leads to breakouts, the electrical separation is no longer given.

Frauscher Axle Counters are a convincing solutions for problematic track section like these
because of their specific properties. Their integration will have a direct positive effect on
availability and maintenance.
 The combination of track-mounted, robust wheel sensors with IP68 ingress protection and
Axle Counters in a safe housing is not affected by flooding, snow, ice, rust or
electromagnetic interference in the track.
 Axle Counters don’t require bonds or insulated joints.

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วิศวกรรมสาร ปีที่ 74 ฉบับที่ 4 ตุลาคม-ธันวาคม 2564