RAIL Cargo Group (RCG), the freight subsidiary of Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB), has undertaken testing of the European Digital Automatic Coupler (DAC) in extreme winter conditions.
After intensive technical preparations and the integration of coupling systems from different manufacturers, the DAC demo train has been put into operation this winter to test the interaction of mechanical, electrical and data transmission components under real world conditions and to check whether the systems work together across all DAC models. RCG says the aim is not only to make the automatic coupling mechanically and pneumatically reliable, but also to ensure digital data and electrical transmission along the entire length of a freight train.
During a three-week test phase, the DAC demo train was exposed to extreme weather conditions in Austria. This included temperatures down to -15°C, freezing rain and fresh snow at the test location of Schwarzach-St Veit station in Salzburg's Pongau region.
The focus was on repeated mechanical coupling operations, electrical uncoupling at the touch of a button and the functionality of the air and data connections. Particular attention was paid to the possible effects of cold weather, snow and ice on lubricants, seals and electrical contacts.
Photo Credit: RCG
In addition, the train was stabled at Böckstein for 10 days under realistic conditions to simulate long idle periods typical in rail freight operations. Snow was deliberately allowed to penetrate all relevant components.
Interim results
The aim of the initial tests with the demo train was to identify potential weak points at an early stage and remedy them consistently. RCG reports that the preliminary results of the winter tests are overwhelmingly positive: the systems tested demonstrated a high level of reliability and robustness, even under demanding winter conditions.
“The tests provide valuable insights for the further development of the technology and confirm that we are on the right track towards a Europe-wide standardised Digital Automatic Coupling,” says Bettina Castillo, CEO of RCG. “Each individual test sequence brings us a decisive step closer to a practical and robust solution for European rail freight transport.”
RCG adds that the current tests lay the foundation for automated brake tests and other digital applications.
Photo Credit: RCG
