Automated System to Find Air Leaks on Locomotives
December 2, 2022
By: Craig Ziegler
Compressed air is a widely used fuel on locomotives. From air brakes to valve actuation to radiator shutters, it’s a crucial fuel to have on board any locomotive. As most know, air leaks are always common in any compressed air system, and the locomotive industry is no different. An estimated 2-3% is lost in vehicle efficiency due to air leaks on the locomotives. Overall, air leaks provide a significant increase in fuel consumption for locomotives which requires them to run more often, burn more fuel, and lower the lifespan of the machines.
Currently, finding air leaks on locomotives is a timely process. They are manually discovered, and it can be potentially dangerous for the workers. To fix this issue, a system using audio detection technology, cameras, and machine learning to autonomously detect and report leaks occurring on the train. The microphones can detect frequencies from 30-45kHz which is the most ideal for detecting compressed air leaks. Also, the instrument works with a visual spectrum camera and they both have machine learning algorithms implemented that help identify air leaks from other surrounding noises.
To conclude, this system should greatly reduce the compressed air system’s performance, reduce mechanical personnel burden, lower fuel spend for locomotives, and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2022/11/221110101834.htm
https://www.swri.org/press-release/swri-develops-automated-system-detect-compressed-air-leaks-trains