The Magnetic Rail Movement Measuring Device for Rail Safety

Over the years, major railways and transit agencies have heavily invested in programs to enhance the early detection of track movement and high rail temperatures. Extreme rail temperatures, lateral push, and vertical pumping pose significant risks to railway infrastructure, leading to track misalignment, buckling, and kinking, which result in passenger and freight train delays, derailments, and costly repairs.

TRB's Transit IDEA Program Final Report 102: The Magnetic Rail Movement Measuring Device for Rail Safety proposes use of a portable Magnetic Rail Movement Measuring Device that could improve early detection of track shifts and temperature extremes, helping prevent track damage and costly repairs.