Network Rail Launches a Major Rail Cleaning Campaign in Scotland: New Technologies and Drones

Network Rail, the operator of the UK’s railway infrastructure, has initiated an autumn rail cleaning campaign in Scotland aimed at combating the effects of falling leaves, this is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

These efforts are particularly important for ensuring the safety and punctuality of both passenger and freight trains.

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This year, the company has allocated £7 million to carry out the work in the region, covering the northernmost lines, which require constant monitoring during the autumn season.

Fallen leaves accumulating on the tracks can pose a serious problem for train operations, creating a slippery surface.

This not only affects the wheels’ grip on the rails but also increases the risk of delays.

To prevent such incidents, Network Rail has deployed seven specialized trains and 18 mobile teams.

This year also sees the introduction of a new technology — drones are being used to assess the level of contamination on high-risk sections of the tracks.

Drones will allow for the timely identification of problem areas and the more efficient allocation of resources.

The main method of track cleaning involves using high-pressure water.

Specialized trains treat the tracks with water, removing accumulated dirt and leaves. Afterward, a sand-filled gel is applied to the surface to improve wheel-to-rail adhesion.

From September 16 to December 6, these trains will cover more than 130,000 kilometers, ensuring safety on all major routes in the region.

In addition, mobile teams on foot use hydrophobic sand to prevent slipping in areas where train access is limited. Network Rail has also introduced an innovation by equipping Class 334 trains with the same sand to conduct tests on several routes.

These tests will help determine the most effective methods of combating autumn rail contamination.

On the West Highland and Balloch – Dalreoch lines, special dual-mode vehicles equipped with cleaning and treatment equipment will be in operation.

Additionally, the company has rented several portable tribometers from Rivelin Rail.

These devices accurately measure rail friction levels, which is especially important during the autumn when weather conditions can vary greatly.

Thus, Network Rail’s autumn campaign in Scotland is focused on ensuring uninterrupted train services and enhancing railway safety.

The implementation of modern technologies, such as drones and tribometers, allows the company to more effectively tackle the challenges of maintaining the tracks in proper condition amid changing autumn weather conditions.

Photo: Network Rail

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