Abstract
M.Phil. (Engineering Management)
This study provides an analysis of the technology development within the railway brake system in the Transnet Freight Railway heavy haul line. The study focuses on brake system development within the freight railway business transporting coal from the mines in Ermelo to the client’s yard in Richards Bay. This study also provides findings from the technology development in freight railway braking system. An introduction of electronics in train braking system has brought operational improvements with an improved braking reaction feature that has simultaneous response capability during a brake command.
The study was performed to determine railway transportation strategies that will improve performance thus meet client’s demand and improve business revenue. An analysis of the studies conducted by various authors reveals that a technology developed braking system features include safe operation and improved brake management in trains with longer cargo. The electro-pneumatic brake system is well-defined as the system with an improved safety feature, consistent operation and possesses a quick response feature during an application to slow down motion or to stop.
An increase in export coal volume by a client has led into a research study on developments that will assist to achieve the expected quantities. A study conducted was aimed to achieve the coal tonnages as per the client demand, an increase in railway business revenues; improve the railway infrastructure business and operations. A study was conducted with reference to the railway brake system developments in different railway companies internationally.
The results of the study reveal benefits of the system to improve operations and the control of all cargo in a train. The train’s serial cargo identification reduces standing times in case of fault identification by locating a defective object. In order to ensure continuous improvement in railway infrastructure and business competitiveness within the South African Railway infrastructure and neighbouring countries; research studies within the company is recommended for greater depth resulting in an increase in revenue.