Winter weather poses unique challenges to the railway network. Network Rail works hard throughout the winter season to minimise disruptions, but ice and snow can create issues for train operations.
The Impact of Low Temperatures on Rail Infrastructure
Freezing Points: These are points that are movable on different sections of the track that allow trains to switch between lines. When temperatures plummet these points can freeze, preventing trains from accessing certain routes or platforms.
Network Rail ensures that measures such as heating systems and manual interventions keep these points operational to manage this potential issue. They also work closely with train operators to adapt schedules and ensure passenger safety during these severe weather conditions.
Challenges of Ice on the Tracks
Much like driving on icy roads, trains face significant challenges with acceleration and braking on icy tracks. The steel wheels and rails have limited friction, making it harder to:
- Brake effectively: Trains could overshoot signals or platforms.
- Accelerate smoothly: Slippery rails increase the likelihood of wheel slip.
To address these issues, many modern trains have features including:
- Anti-ice systems: Preventing ice from forming on key components.
- Wheel-slip protection: Ensuring smoother acceleration and braking.
Snow and Its Disruptive Effects
Snow can obstruct the tracks and affect train movement. Although Network Rail operates a fleet of specialised winter vehicles equipped with snowploughs, hot air blowers, steam jets, and scrapers, maintaining this fleet across the entire network remains a challenge due to Britain’s unpredictable weather. Network Rail positions snow-clearing equipment in areas prone to heavy snowfall, particularly in northern England and Scotland.
Freeze-Thaw Damage
Winter conditions can also affect the structural integrity of tracks, causing issues such as Frozen ballast, where the stone foundation under the tracks can freeze, preventing essential maintenance. Extreme cold conditions can also cause Freeze-thaw cycles, where the continual freezing and thawing can displace tracks, increasing the risk of derailments. Through using advanced weather monitoring systems, Network Rail can address these risks to maintain safety and reliability.
How we help these services monitor weather conditions:
The Role of Magnetic Track Thermometers in Rail Safety
Maintaining track safety during extreme weather requires accurate monitoring of the track’s temperature and its fluctuations. Our Magnetic Dial Thermometer is a vital tool for this task.
Designed in Sweden to meet the rigorous demands of railway applications, this thermometer provides precise, real-time temperature readings directly on the tracks. Its sturdy magnetic base ensures secure placement even in challenging conditions, offering rail operators a dependable solution for monitoring temperature changes that could impact these trains' performance and safety.
Our Railway Thermometers are available in both calibrated and uncalibrated models, these thermometers allow operators to choose the level of accuracy that suits their specific needs. By monitoring rail temperatures, operators can:
- Reduce maintenance costs by addressing issues before they escalate.
- Optimise track performance under a variety of weather conditions.
- Enhance passenger safety by mitigating risks associated with temperature-induced track stress.
How Do Other Countries Cope?
Even nations with regularly harsh winters face disruptions. In colder climates, railways may implement slower speeds or even suspend services entirely to ensure the safety of both passengers and operators. While heavy snow can often bring European rail networks to a stop, Britain is investing in modern trains and infrastructure to improve the railway’s operation against these extreme conditions.
Working Together to Keep Britain Moving
Winter may bring its challenges but at Russell Scientific, we are committed to keeping passengers and freight operators moving safely. With the help of innovative technologies such as our magnetic railway thermometer, we’re helping the railway sector tackle the harshest weather reliably and efficiently.