Monitoring real-time railway loading saves DB Netz from expensive repairs
For our client DB Netz, the infrastructure operator Deutsche Bahn (DB), we installed an application to monitor track loading on a bridge in real-time. A solar-powered Gantner Instruments data acquisition system now continuously monitors the condition of a railway bridge in Germany with an arch span of almost 270 meters.
Testing System
For this project, we were faced with noise sources, a remote outdoor location, and off-grid operation. The Gantner solution chosen for this application was a Q.bloxx XL data acquisition (DAQ) system consisting of several carrier frequency modules for noise-free strain gage and LVDT measurement, a module for universal inputs, and a module for IEPE vibration measurement. With every passing train, the monitoring system collects and transfers data to GI.cloud. Visualizing and recording calculated parameters paired with time-synched measurement data allows the Gl.cloud service to notify users automatically when critical thresholds are reached.
Specials
This case study explains in detail how the Q.series X data acquisition system provides valuable insights into the structure's status to determine failure conditions, such as:
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The number of axles per crossing train (i.e., 4, 6, 18, 120)
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Axis load (kN) for each axis
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Axis imbalance (kN) left and right
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Identification of train type based on speed, load and amount of axis and their distance
- Max strain on structures/pillars (microstrain)
- Max displacement of structures/overhang
For more detailed technical information on the distributed, off-grid structural health monitoring system chosen for this application, download the free case study.