VR FleetCare has installed seven measuring stations at switches located at key traffic locations across the Finnish network. The sensor technology, which was developed by Vire Labs, a provider of artificial IoT-based solutions, will measure the performance of around 80 switches. The hope is that this data can be used to inform a condition-based maintenance (CBM) programme that will optimise maintenance procedures while preventing future failures, particularly in cold conditions.

Switches have a complex structure consisting of multiple components which carry out different functions. Failure of any element can affect the performance of the switch but currently all maintenance procedures are the same, potentially leading to inefficiencies.

“With more accurate information, it is possible to improve the usability of the gears and reduce the disruption caused to rail operations,” says Mr Marko Lehtosaari, Fairway Agency maintenance expert. “The goal is to identify maintenance needs before any abnormal operation is detected.”

VR FleetCare says the project will continue until next summer after which the hope is that FTIA will want to expand the service to other locations. Although it could not put any numbers on the time or money saved, the company says it is “substantial.”

This is not VR FleetCare’s first CBM project. The company is working on projects relating to bogie condition monitoring. In addition, it has used an automatic wheel measurement system to optimise lathing processes and use CBM for wheels since 2012.