The Challenge
A high-volume commuter rail service was looking for a built-for-purpose custom solution to help them move away from their dependence on leasing critical maintenance-of-way (MOW) equipment to manage their track infrastructure.
Upon learning of their intent, Brandt approached the customer to collaborate on the development of a specification for equipment to replace the existing leased unit. When this was complete, a request for quote was issued and Brandt was awarded the contract following an extensive competitive bid process.
Brandt was chosen primarily because of our exceptional capacity to design and manufacture complex machines to the highest industry standards. Additionally, the Brandt team demonstrated a strong commitment to meeting the needs of the customer over the full life-cycle of the completed unit, setting us apart from competitors.
The Solution
Drawing on extensive experience in large-scale fabrication projects and a strong understanding of the customer’s business requirements, Brandt assigned a highly-qualified team, led by a senior project manager, to coordinate the initiative, facilitate ongoing communication and ensure successful, on-time delivery of the finished product.
The result delivered by Brandt, the continuous work platform (CWP), is a custom-designed, self-propelled MOW machine configured to meet specific customer requirements. In this case, the unit is comprised of a locomotive pulling seven articulated short-side gondolas having a continuous flat floor of approximately 290 feet in length. The solution incorporates a John Deere 135G excavator which has been sized to fit within the gondolas and can operate the entire length of the work platform to load and unload maintenance materials.
Key Specifications:
- Track gauge............................................... 4 ft 8.5 in (US standard)
- Nominal overall length.......................................... 320 ft
- Inside length of gondola/platform....................... 290 ft
- Maximum weight on rail..................................... 1,290,000 lb
- Estimated tare weight.................................. 440,000 lb
- Load capacity............................... 850,000 lb
- Vehicle clearance.................................... AAR Plate C compliant
- Locomotive nominal horsepower................................. 600 hp
- Maximum operating speed............................................. 40 mph
- Minimum starting tractive effort...................................... 30,000 lb
The Result
The CWP is perfectly suited to the customer’s requirements and has eliminated the need to lease off-the-shelf equipment of similar capacity. The final design was completed within the allotted schedule and met or exceeded all of the requirements of the contract specification. Upon delivery, the customer noted the exceptional workmanship and quality of execution.
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