Testing of the intermodal railmaster system concept under the high productivity integral train project

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Testing of the intermodal railmaster system concept under the high productivity integral train project

Anderson, G.B. / Kalaycioglu, S.F. / Singh, S.P.

This paper presents a summary of the testing of the intermodal concept designed by Railmaster Systems, Inc. This intermodal train concept was the first design tested by the Association of American Railroads under the High Productivity Integral Train (HPIT) project. A technical and economic evaluation of this concept was completed by the HPIT committee prior to the test program. The objectives of the test program were to assess the ability of the vehicles to safely operate in revenue service and to confirm the results of the technical evaluation. Therefore, testing was done on lateral stability, curving, vertical dynamics, and ride quality. Tests were also conducted on train resistance, structural integrity, brake system performance, and suspension characterization. The Railmaster highway/rail trailer train concept test results showed excellent aerodynamics and curving ability, and good vertical dynamic performance and lateral stability. The trailer structure and brake system met most design expectations. The concept should be capable of revenue service evaluation, though neither designed nor approved for railroad interchange service.