LASERTRAIN

Dealing with leaves disrupting your rail service? Look no further. Our laser cleaning solution offers non-abrasive and precise cleaning to prevent rail slippage and maintain railway tracks and infrastructure.  

Slip Away From Your Safety Issues

As passing trains crush fallen leaves, they become a Teflon like substance with an oily residue that diminishes the Coefficient of Friction (COF) of the railhead and can compromise rail safety. This leads to difficulties accelerating and braking, resulting in hazardous conditions and inevitable delays. 

LaserTrain applies the focused intense energy of laser beams (laser ablation) to remove contaminants, debris, rust, and other unwanted materials from the surface of the rails. This precision reduces the risk of over-cleaning or unnecessary wear ensuring optimal performance, safety, and longevity of the rail systems.  Enhancing rail grip reduces the risk of accidents, especially in adverse weather conditions.

Benefits

Safety

Optimal braking and acceleration, detectable trains and SPAD

Maintenance

Reduction in flat spots and damaged track

Capacity

Fewer cars removed from service; and speed restrictions lifted

Service

Reduced delays and
cancellations for passengers

Energy

Low energy consumption

Punctuality

Trains operate to schedule due to optimal braking and acceleration

Key Features

Autonomous Control System with Safety Enhancement


LaserTrain’s controls are automated for efficient and consistent cleaning across railway networks. Geographic Information system (GIS) data allows it to seamlessly transition between operational Modes and avoid obstacles. Speed-controlled laser shut-off at low speeds reduces the risk of over-cleaning or causing wear.

Accurate Clean


Our LaserTrain technology removes contaminants from the railhead without causing any surface damage. One train pass-over can reduce rail slip risks for up to 24 hours. By removing contamination build-up, LaserTrain contributes to reduced rail wheel maintenance associated with wheel flat spots and blocks, extending the rail wheel performance.

Remote Operations


LaserTrain offers a non-contact method that requires no physical abrasion. Remote operations reduce the need for personnel to be in close proximity to the tracks during cleaning, eradicating exposure to harmful chemicals and enhancing safety for workers. Access LaserTrain performance information such as the live position of the train, where the train has been, slip slide results and miles cleaned in the Customer Dashboard.

Customised Cleaning Speeds


A choice of cleaning speeds gives operators the flexibility to adapt to individual cleaning needs, ensuring safe, efficient and responsible operations. The LaserTrain ensures optimum results without compromising track integrity. Select from maximum operating speeds of 20mph (33km/h), 40mph (65km/h) and 60mph (100km/h)


Sustainable Rail Solution


Our high-powered lasers deliver robust performance while utilizing low energy consumption. LaserTrain uses an eco-friendly cleaning technique that generates minimal waste and does not involve the use of chemicals or abrasive materials, making it an environmentally friendly option.



System Overview


Seamless Compatibility for Maximum Efficiency


Enjoy a seamless experience with our plug-and-play Freight Model, designed for effortless integration and operations. The pre-set design slashes engineering, build, and test time while ensuring regulatory compliance from the outset. Engineered to seamlessly fit a Y25 bogey or R141 truck without modifications, the 20 ft half-height container guarantees compatibility with UK, EU, and US loading gauges. Expect shorter lead times, higher uptimes, reduced costs, and streamlined spare parts management, thanks to the pre-existing design and standardized components.
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Reliable and Compliant for Long-Term Success


LaserTrain is efficiently pulled by locomotives and can operate with or without a separate generator, reducing costs and boosting operational flexibility. Designed for 200,000 kilometres per year, our freight model ensures unparalleled product longevity and reliability. The Freight Model is constructed and rigorously tested in our Amsterdam workshop by LPS staff before installation, minimising the risk of oversights or surprises. Most LaserTrain components sit within one of two main compartments:  The ‘LaserTrain Equipment (LTE)’ is found in the container or car above the wagon, or the The ‘LaserTrain Contraption (LTC)’ which is attached to the truck, between the wheels. It adheres to the following regulatory compliance standards:

Safety of laser products - Part 1: Equipment classification and requirements (IEC 60825-1:2014) 
2. Railway applications - Rolling stock equipment -Shock and vibration tests
(IEC 61373:2010,IDT)

Installation and Removal Made Easy


Designed to integrate and operate with ease, the plug-and-play design ensures easy handling and quick set-up on arrival, optimising shipping logistics and reducing freight costs. Transportation of the LaserTrain is facilitated by flatbed truck, and  and installation needs a forklift and pit/raised floor access. The compact, modular unit simplifies setup by reducing installation and dismantling times from weeks to days, with no need for scaffolding or LPS personnel, helping to streamline your project schedules and labour costs.

All LaserTrain’s require to be installed and tested on a live track prior to operation. One week is needed after install for system testing, which includes doing runs on the live track at speed capacity.

Seamless Maintenance & Tailored Support for Peak Performance


Our modular system makes maintenance easy, often requiring as little as one hour per week. With easily accessible components, you minimise downtime and disruption, ensuring cost savings and short lead times to keep your operation running smoothly and efficiently.

We understand that each client has unique requirements. That’s why we offer a tiered system of service and support, allowing us to create packages that meet specific needs and budgets. Whether you need basic maintenance or comprehensive support, our customisable options put you in control, ensure you get the right level of service for your operation. Maintenance training is provided by LPS staff to ensure your team can operate the LaserTrain effectively and safely. Continuous remote monitoring means that LPS personnel keep an eye on the LaserTrain during shifts, providing an extra layer of security and support to ensure optimum performance and safety at all times.

Flexible Contracts


Procure the LaserTrain in a way that suits your rail network's goals. Whether it's an outright purchase or a lease contract, we've got you covered.  Pricing is based on individual requests, considering design variations and contract specifications. Contact us to explore the best contract option that aligns with your rail network's needs. To see real life examples and use cases of our LaserTrain models and their operational effectiveness, explore our recent work.

We’re on the same wavelength

We’re always looking for new opportunities and we can keep journeys on track all around the world.