Strukton installs POSS pilot project in Detroit

Written by Jenifer Nunez, assistant editor
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In late July 2014, Strukton Systems installed a POSS switch monitoring system in Detroit, Mich., which involved Canadian National Railway switches at the Moterm junction. At the end of the six-month period, CN will decide whether or not it will be acquiring the system.

 

Moterm Junction consists of two crossover switches, controlled by switch machines that employ helper rods due to the length of the switch blades.

The company said while the switches at Moterm are not used frequently (three to five times a day), they are subjected to considerable strains. The passing freight trains are often more than half a mile long, transporting double-stack containers and autos. The facility needs to satisfy very strict availability requirements due to the large volumes transported in each individual train run. Any delays in the train services for the DHL or UPS package delivery companies would result in a steep fine.

The POSS system can be used to monitor rail assets, such as switches, train detection systems, level crossings, etc. The monitoring data are presented in a universal format and can be reviewed via the internet.

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