Mining railroad VALE EFVM (Estrada de Ferro Vitória a Minas) in Brazil has equipped locomotive No. 1256 with ENSCO Rail’s Autonomous Track Geometry Measurement System (ATGMS), according to the supplier.
The system is described as providing “continuous, autonomous measurement of track geometry, enabling rail operators to monitor track conditions in real-time and make data-driven maintenance decisions to enhance safety and efficiency.” It also operates “without requiring additional personnel on board, minimizing operational disruptions and improving overall productivity,” according to ENSCO Rail, which provides rail infrastructure inspection technology.
Locomotive 1256 (pictured, left) entered service Nov. 11. After its first full run, VALE EFVM told ENSCO Rail that its “team, including two of our top experts, is extremely impressed with the system’s performance. It’s a truly cutting-edge tool! We’ve been discussing implementing technology like this since 2017, and while it took some time to get here, this is undoubtedly a valuable investment for improving our operations. We’re looking forward to the learning opportunities it will bring with both ATGMS and AMA.”
VALE EFVM, which supports parent company VALE’s iron ore mining business by transporting ore from mine to port, also uses ENSCO Rail’s Automated Maintenance Advisor (AMA) and Vehicle/Track Interaction (V/TI) system. “The AMA leverages data collected by systems like the ATGMS to provide actionable insights and maintenance recommendations, optimizing maintenance schedules and extending the life cycle of critical rail assets,” ENSCO Rail explained. “The V/TI system complements this by monitoring the dynamic interactions between vehicles and the track, helping identify potential issues that could impact safety and performance. Together, these systems provide a comprehensive approach to infrastructure management, enabling VALE EFVM to proactively address challenges and enhance operational efficiency.”
“ENSCO Rail is honored to partner with VALE EFVM on this important program,” said Alex Seredich, Division Manager at ENSCO Rail. “The successful implementation of the ATGMS and AMA highlights the growing importance of advanced rail technology in achieving operational excellence and safety.”
