On Track Plant Maximum Speed

[Temple Meads]

Hi everyone, I'm just wondering what is the maximum speed of things like Tampers, Stoneblowers and Grinders?

You know the ones that run on the mainline, and look relatively like normal trains.

 

[Ploughman]

I think most will be capable of 60 - 70mph as a transit speed.
However working speed will be more like 600 metres / hour

 

[The Planner]

Transit moves are normally timed for 60mph.

 

[Temple Meads]

Ok, cheers guys

 

[HSTEd]

There are now "high speed grinders" that can work at 50-60mph or so.

They are used extensively in Germany apparently.
Such things probably strengthen the case for slab track rather alot... since I believe grinding is the only maintenance a slab track settup actually requires.

 

[Ploughman]

Other than new Rail, Insulators, Fastenings, Pads etc

 

[HSTEd]

Other than new Rail, Insulators, Fastenings, Pads etc

Many lab track installations that have seen very heavy use have not required significant maintenance along those lines (especially not new rails) for 25 years or more after installation.

(The maintenance costs for slab track in Japan are a quarter those of conventional track and most of that appears to be grinding).

I am sure one engineering closure every 20-30 years or more is an improvement over the current system.