The Queensland Rail (QR) EMU HVAC fleet was re-engineered in the late 1990s, which included having an onboard PLC in every unit. The subsequent benefits of data logging resulted in the PLC being incorporated into the design of all HVAC units for the SMU and IMU fleets. The inclusion of a PLC provides valuable information to the operator and to Noske Rail* as the re-engineering and overhaul provider.
The Noske Rail solution:
The data collected from these units is advantageous in enabling higher diagnostic accuracy and, therefore, more efficient servicing. It gives surety as to what issues have been with the fleet and a good understanding of what is needed for the future.
Since 2014, Noske Rail has completed over 400 jobs, including major services, with less than 3% NFF.
The detailed monitoring of key components of the HVAC system has made it possible to accurately design a scope of works to rectify the NFF, improving the reliability and availability of the fleet.
It also allowed confirmation of whether previous repairs were or were not successful via verification using operational data.
The use of datalogging, and engagement of a HVAC specialist such as Noske Rail, can have other benefits for a rail fleet, including:
- Long life filter testing – unit performance over time
- Tested / checked OK – understanding of faults for control logic changes
- Reset – accuracy on why the unit is tripped
- Control logic review – how the programming manages the units’ operation
- Refrigeration and thermodynamic design review
An investment into PLC data logging can bring immediate savings in the reduction of cost for future overhauls, but also provide ongoing cost savings for annual fleet running costs.
To discuss the benefits of data logging with one of our team, contact us today.
*This project was completed by Coachair rail, who combined with Noske Rail in 2022, bringing together two great rail HVAC companies under one brand.
