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Aerodynamic ordering of freight cars |
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evaluated |
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Many freight trains are mixed, i.e. they are composed of different types of freight cars. In mixed trains air resistance can be substantially reduced by ordering the freight cars in an aerodynamically favourable manner without any changes on the rolling stock itself.
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Technology field: Aerodynamics and friction
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General information
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General criteria
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Environmental criteria
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Economic criteria
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Application outside railway sector (this technology is railway specific)
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Overall rating
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Overall potential: promising |
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Time horizon: mid-term |
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Given present train formation processes, imposing aerodynamic constraints on car order meets huge organisational obstacles. However, the big theoretical saving potential of such a measure justifies a close look at chances to overcome the barriers. R&D is recommendable to examine the possibility of integrating aerodynamic constraints into existing or future logistic planning and fleet management systems. |
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References / Links:
Vollmer 1989
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Attachments:
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Related projects:
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Contact persons:
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date created: 2002-10-09 |
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© UIC - International Union of Railways 2003 |
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