In August our Network Operations team collaborated with an external contractor as well as our team in Picton to upgrade some critical technology on the railway.
RailBAM (Bearing Acoustic Monitor) – used to monitor train wheel bearings for defects and in turn, prevent safety incidents and track damage.
RailBAM works by identifying sound characteristics emitted by faulty bearings and wheels on passing trains. The audible signature of the bearing as it passes the RailBAM is recorded and undergoes analysis to determine the health of the bearing and which component is showing signs of deterioration. The equipment has highly directional ‘listening’ abilities, used to minimise false alerts.
The existing RailBAM units are more than 20 years old, and are being replaced with updated technology that will be easier to support and maintain.
Monitoring the bearing wear not only maximises their lifespan but allows above rail operators to intervene before a major failure, which could lead to a safety incident, costly breakdown and track damage.
RailBAM forms part of a family of wayside equipment used by Arc to help maintain a safe, reliable and efficient network. Other types of wayside equipment include Wheel Condition Monitors (WCM) and thermal cameras deployed around the rail network. These systems are constantly reviewed and updated as required to maximise safety across the network.
General Manager Network Strategy and Customer Operations Paul Lowney said the regional Southwest team had worked seamlessly with the Network Operations and Wabtec teams to support the installation.
“It’s always a lot of moving parts to get jobs like RailBAM complete, but thanks to the efforts of our project team and regional colleagues, this new equipment is now in place and working well.
“The Picton installation also coincided with 2024 Rail Safety Week and was an important reminder of the reason these projects are so important for Arc to undertake,” Paul said.
Wabtec was engaged to replace the system at Picton, with further upgrades planned in Mundijong and Hampton over the next 12 months.
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