Dual Function for Track Geometry and Void Monitoring
Published on: Mar 4, 2025
Take predictive action before degradation escalates
Railway infrastructure managers face unprecedented challenges in maintaining track stability. Until now, monitoring solutions have been limited to static geometry assessments or isolated void detections.
The introduction of Railmonitor’s dual function capability changes the game—offering a world-first approach that simultaneously tracks rail geometry and void formation in real time. With wireless capability, this solution provides maximum flexibility for various railway environments.
Proven Effectiveness
The dual function is tested on a project with an auxiliary bridge for dynamic settlement, assessing how the transition between the track bed and the bridge structure responds as trains pass over, proving its effectiveness in real-world railway applications.
This breakthrough is powered by the RM-1 Sensor, developed by Railmonitor. It enables precise dual monitoring functionality at the core of this innovation.
The RM-1 Sensor enables high-precision measurement of both static and dynamic track conditions.
- Static measurements capture track conditions in unloaded situation providing insights into track geometry: tilt, cant, twist —essential for understanding long-term track stability.
- Dynamic measurements analyze track behavior under train loads, detecting voids and variations, which help identify weaknesses that could lead to instability.
By measuring both the left and right sides of the sleepers, the system can also calculate dynamic cant and twist, further enhancing track monitoring capabilities.
To illustrate the impact of real-time monitoring, our Digital Service Platform visualizes data from key locations. The video below, covering a time interval of 7 weeks, shows dynamic deflection occurring in the transition zones on both sides of a bridge, while areas 6-8 meters away show no deflection. This insight helps you pinpoint structural weaknesses before they escalate.
Tracking Deflection Over Time
Our analysis reveals dynamic deflection in the transition zones, while areas 6-8 meters away remain stable. This week-by-week visualization highlights evolving track conditions, helping you pinpoint weak spots and optimize maintenance with precision.
Key Benefits of the Dual Function
- Dual Functionality – Simultaneously monitor track geometry and void formation in real time.
- Wireless Capability – Experience seamless monitoring without the need for wired installations.
- Faster Installation – With just one sensor needed for both functions, deployment is quicker and more efficient.
- Single-Sensor Efficiency – Eliminates the need for separate sensors by combining track geometry and void monitoring into one device.
Why Real-Time Monitoring?
- Dynamic Loading & Track Movement
Train wheels shift rails over time. Without monitoring, deflection goes unnoticed until failure. - Voids & Stability Risks
Erosion and settlement create voids, weakening the track and causing misalignment. - Soil Properties & Track Behavior
Instability affects ride quality. Monitoring detects weak spots early, preventing costly repairs.
