Wireless asset tracking

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Jobwerx Manufacturing Network - Arkansas & Missouri Railroad / March 3, 2007

Railroads Benefit From Wireless Web-Based Asset Tracking Solution

The Arkansas and Missouri Railroads are using the new RFTrax AMP solution by accessing wireless, real-time data to monitor its locomotives.

RFTrax, a wholly owned subsidiary of Fairfield Industries, announces the launch of its next-generation Asset Management PlatformTM (AMP) for Locomotives, an integrated asset tracking solution designed to help railroads boost productivity and efficiency and control costs. The solution, developed and manufactured by RFTrax, combines a rugged, onboard Asset Command Unit* (ACU) with multiple sensors, a powerful backend database application hosted by the company, and a Web portal for customers to view and interact with information about their locomotives.

By accessing wireless, real-time data on a locomotive's exact geographical location, idling time, and receiving automated alerts on critical scenarios such as man-down or low temperature, railroads can optimize equipment and personnel utilization.

The Arkansas and Missouri Railroad, an independent, Class III railroad serving a 139-mile corridor from Fort Smith, Ark., to Monett, Mo., is using the new RFTrax AMP solution to monitor 15 of its locomotives, including three remote-control locomotives. After only a few months, the railroad is already achieving measurable benefits by lowering fuel costs, reducing car billing charges, and adding an important layer of safety for its crews.

"I've been really impressed with the RFTrax system," said Casey Shepherd, chief mechanical officer, Arkansas and Missouri Railroad. "We expect to recoup the cost of the RFTrax system within six months through cost savings and greater efficiency." One major ROI factor is reduced fuel consumption. "By remotely tracking the temperature of the locomotives, we can avoid extensive idling to stay warm - and that saves up to five gallons of diesel per hour per unit. The system alerts us to start the engine if the temperature drops."

 

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