Sand technology to be installed on 64 trains

Published Tuesday, 17 December, 2013 at 02:00 PM

Minister for Transport and Main Roads
The Honourable Scott Emerson

Queensland Rail will roll out new sanding systems on 64 trains as part of an extensive program to improve grip between the wheels and rail lines.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said the completion of testing for the sanding system following an incident at Cleveland station on January 31 showed the 160/260 class trains would benefit from the extra safety measure.

“Installation of the sanding systems on one-third of the fleet, purchased between 2007 and 2011, is expected to start by June and be complete by September 2015, at an estimated cost of $15 million,” Mr Emerson said.

“Earlier this year we acted quickly to engage the Australian Transport Safety Bureau to deliver an interim report, which found the brakes of the train involved were working to specification.

“The bureau also recommended a number of steps to reduce risk in certain conditions and we determined the use of sanding systems to be one of those steps.

“We promised at the election to deliver better infrastructure and this move also delivers on that promise.”

Queensland Rail has been working to design a suitable system, modify software and manufacture materials that meet local tracks and weather condition. The technology has also been approved by the braking manufacturer.

Other measures to reduce the risk of wheel slide include:

  • Improving procedures for inspectors to identify, report and remove rail contaminants
  • A new track contaminant prevention plan, including vegetation management
  • Improving operational procedures for train drivers and guards, network controllers and track maintenance staff following a report of wheel slide
  • Additional driver training to manage and prevent wheel slide
  • Briefing and re-training drivers in brake-handling procedures for 160/260 class trains
  • Withdrawing, testing and safely reintroducing trains after a reported abnormal slide
  • Temporary speed restrictions at specific locations across the rail network 

“Engineers also looked into alternative solutions including tread brakes and magnetic track brakes, but found these were unsuitable for our conditions,” he said.

“While we have significantly improved the reliability and frequency of services, safety is also a priority and I want to assure passengers that our entire fleet of trains remains safe for travel.”

Media contact: Andrew Berkman 0429 128 637