MTA testing prototype portable vacuums to keep tracks clean

The MTA is testing two prototypes of powerful – but portable — track vacuum systems that can be quickly deployed, operated from platforms, and moved easily from one station to the next.

MTA

New York’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) is testing two prototypes of portable track vacuum systems to bolster the network’s efforts to keep tracks clean.  

The transportation authority says both of the vacuums can be quickly deployed, operated from platforms and easily transported from one station to another.

MTA says the new units are part of the MTA’s continuing Track Sweep initiative launched in June 2016—a multi-pronged plan aimed at drastically reducing the presence of trash on subway tracks, improving station environments and minimizing track fires and train delays.

“Testing these new technologies is a key part in our plan to get the tracks cleaner, and keep them cleaner over the long haul,” said MTA President Veronique Hakim. “Once we’re sure that these units are effective we’ll be ordering additional units to deploy across the system.”

The first prototype is being tested currently, and the transportation authority says the second set will be deployed within two weeks. Both of the prototype units are powered by lithium iron phosphate batteries, utilizing a battery management system that works to protect the batteries and load from over current. 

The prototypes can both be moved from one station to the next via a conventional revenue train, and the tests are scheduled to last about 30–45 days. The MTA says it plans to move aggressively to acquire and deploy additional units following successful completion of the tests.