Logger keeps check of third rail height
A
dataTaker product story
Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team
Jan 9, 2004
A Datataker DT800 high-speed data logger is part of the Atkins Rail developed train based system for the dynamic measurement of third rail height.
A Datataker DT800 high-speed data logger is part of the Atkins Rail developed train based system for the dynamic measurement of third rail height.
The Datataker DT800 data logger is ideal for many monitoring applications and was chosen by Atkins Rail for this application due to its speed and flexibility.
Operators of trains in third rail areas can experience damage to shoe gear, resulting in service delays, due to gapping of the train.
Many causes can be attributed to this damage, the major factor being the condition of the third rail and running rail support ballast.
Considerable stress is put upon the shoe gear if the third rail height is too high.
If too severe the shoe gear limit beam will crack with possible eventual loss of the gear.
Generally it is not possible to pinpoint the actual location of the track that initiated the problem.
Site surveys are often inconclusive as they are undertaken when no trains are running over relatively small areas.
Benefits to the operator include the speed of the system, flexibility as the third rail voltage can also be monitored during the same test run.
The system is linked to the train speed pulse generator, enabling track distance to be accurately measured at specific distance intervals, irrespective of train speed.
The system is capable of taking a measurement every 0.5m.
For high-speed data logging, the DT800 can sample up to 130,000 data points.
Up to 42 analogue channels and 16 digital channels can monitor DC and AC voltage, current, resistance, temperature, bridges, strain gauges, and 4-20mA loops and frequency.
ATA Flash PC cards provide removable data storage with battery-backed RAM to prevent any loss of data.
Digital outputs can control equipment and raise alarms.
For enhanced reliability, the DT800 has built-in, self-correcting features and will test sensor integrity and flag suspect data.
Event management facilities provide performance analysis and problems can be identified by rapid sampling and alarming across channels.
Data manipulation includes statistical functions, calculations and sensor calibration.
Alarms can be set for all channels.
The Datataker DT800 has a wide array of functions but is simple to install and operate and is very fast.
Data can be downloaded to a computer via direct RS232, modem, radio or satellite links.
Ethernet and PC card interface adaptors are standard features.
DeLogger software can be adapted to suit each application to give an immediate visual presentation for fast access to information and results.
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