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Metro-North to expand use of lasers to combat leaf-fall on rails

The contract follows a successful pilot program conducted in fall 2022, following Long Island Rail Road's (LIRR) use of the technology.

Space-age laser and plasma train trials zap autumn leaves off the line

“This technology could potentially reduce the need for that water and the fuel needed to transport it around the country, benefiting both the environment and costing the taxpayer less.”

October 26, 2022

Metro-North to use ‘laser train’ to clear slimy autumn debris from tracks

“This is a technology…that was pioneered by the Long Island Rail Road in 2018, and is poised to become an important part of Metro North’s efforts to combat leaf season slip slide and flat wheels.”

October 24, 2022

MTA announces best LIRR On-Time Performance in modern history

“An aggressive leaf fighting strategy has reduced “slip-sliding” where emergency braking creates flat spots on train wheels, forcing the LIRR to take much-needed equipment out of service for repairs.”‍

January 21, 2022

How the LIRR combats an astonishingly annoying problem: Fallen leaves

“These trains have proved so efficient, we added a second laser train last year and increased its speed, allowing us to cover more territory more quickly. The initiative has yielded major year-over-year improvements in service while ultimately paying for itself through reduced labor and material costs.”

October 31, 2021

Nov 17, 2024

New client announcement – MBTA and Keolis Commuter Services.

LPS is proud to announce that Keolis Commuter Services in Boston has integrated the LaserTrain into its maintenance strategy for the MBTA’s Commuter Rail system. By leveraging modern rail cleaning laser technology, Keolis aims to combat slip events and ensure safe, efficient operations across the North Boston rail network.

Aug 16, 2022

Innovative laser technology to be tested by Network Rail this Autumn

Network Rail is trialling a new laser technology this Autumn which is designed to clear the residue of fallen leaves from train lines at speeds up to 60mph.

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Meet the Metro North LaserTrain 2026

LPS LaserTrain cleaning (close up, slow motion)

Keolis LaserTrain cleans over switches 2025

60 mph LaserTrain cleaning band 2025

MNR LaserTrain 60 mph cleaning 2024

Keolis & MBTA Boston LaserTrain 2024

LPS RVO NL video with English subtitles

MTA Board Meeting LIRR LaserTrain Results 2020

Metro-North LaserTrain wins APTA Rail Safety Gold Award

LIRR 2019 Low Adhesion Results LaserTrain

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