LORAM Rail Grinder

A model of these would make a great looking track cleaning train.

Fantastic video Madison.

A scale model Loram Rail Grinder would sure be appreciated.

Thank you,

Ralph 

It would be nice to have one in O scale, but would probably be an expensive item. They're really impressive at night. Caught this one when I was on my way home from the club. Spotted it on the ATSF Fullerton-to-San Bernardino tracks off the 91 Freeway. Was able to get ahead of it an pulled into an adjacent parking lot off Tyler in Riverside.

Can't tell if it's a Loram

I would think that a replication of this effect using small SMD ultra-bright LED's with a random-firing circuit would be 'safer' than trying to generate actual sparks from some on-board device.  Real sparks (electrical, abrasive, etc.), as I understand the phenomenon, actually generate debris, albeit microscopic....something else leading to dirty track...and more?.

Regardless, though....it would definitely be a cool show-stopper on a layout when the ambient lights are dimmed. 

Terry!   (Tonkanut)  Where are you???  This is your next 'lumiphonic' extravaganza!!!

KD

Thank you Matt,

The night scene is also spectacular.

Ralph

It definitely would be a show stopper.  I wonder what the cost per mile is for LORAM to redress the rails? 

I would like to see a before and after pic of the rails

Do you know what "Loram" stands for?

Long Range Mannix...and I have no idea what that means!  Was at the factory for a tour during an NMRA convention years ago (1999) and that's what they told us.

Saw one working on the Horseshoe Curve on the 4th of July in the evening following a trailer train wreck.  Best fireworks I ever saw.

Always thought a Loram rail grinder would be a superb piece for MTH to build.  Could put a spinning disc against a flint and make lots of sparks and put in a couple of smoke units for tons of smoke.  What a sight that would be!

Info on the companies origin is near the end of the article.

http://www.startribune.com/business/129997928.html

BTW, the original track profiling equipment was made by Speno which became Pandrol Jackson and is now part of Harsco.

The newer grinders are working on ways to speed up the process from 2-10 mph to 20-40 mph and use of vacuum equipment to collect the debris and cut down on fires.  Western railroads would often team up a "water" train to lead the grinder and wet down the right of way to minimize fires.  Most of the profiling trains have fire suppression equipment on the trailing cars (tanks and water cannon).

Yes, it's expensive but not as expensive as replacing rail, especially continuos welded rail.  The rail profiler extends the life of the track and actually helps with rolling efficiency reduced fuel consumption, and wheel wear.

Last summer we we're running the grinder from Toledo to Chicago during that really dry spell, even with the water spray truck following a mile behind we still had no fewer than 60 tie fires. This thing runs HOT!