US20090000869A1 - Apparatus for Applying a Pumpable Material to a Rail Head - Google Patents
Apparatus for Applying a Pumpable Material to a Rail Head Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20090000869A1 US20090000869A1 US11/769,057 US76905707A US2009000869A1 US 20090000869 A1 US20090000869 A1 US 20090000869A1 US 76905707 A US76905707 A US 76905707A US 2009000869 A1 US2009000869 A1 US 2009000869A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- applicator
- rail
- assembly
- applicator assembly
- set forth
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 68
- 230000000994 depressogenic effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 13
- 230000006835 compression Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000007423 decrease Effects 0.000 claims 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 claims 1
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 6
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 description 5
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 description 5
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000004913 activation Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000001514 detection method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000007257 malfunction Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000013070 direct material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000006073 displacement reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000004519 grease Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000003137 locomotive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000314 lubricant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000750 progressive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005096 rolling process Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B61—RAILWAYS
- B61K—AUXILIARY EQUIPMENT SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR RAILWAYS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B61K3/00—Wetting or lubricating rails or wheel flanges
Definitions
- This invention relates to an apparatus for applying pumpable material to a rail head of a rail, and more particularly to an apparatus for applying a friction modifying material to a rail head of a railroad rail.
- lubricants e.g., grease
- other friction modifying materials onto railroad rails, such as to the tops or sides of the rails at or near curves, turnouts, switches and other locations where such materials are needed or desired.
- lubricants e.g., grease
- such materials either reduce or increase the friction where necessary to improve train performance and reduce wear on both the rails and the train wheels.
- an applicator assembly for delivery of a pumpable material to a top surface of a rail head of rail generally comprises an applicator body having at least one orifice for delivery of the pumpable material to the top surface of the rail.
- the body is resiliently yieldable to permit the applicator body to move from a raised position, in which the orifice is positioned for delivering the pumpable material to the top surface of the rail head, to a depressed position in the event the applicator is contacted by a train wheel.
- the applicator body thereafter is adapted to return to the raised position.
- an applicator apparatus for delivery of a pumpable material to a rail head of rail generally comprises an applicator assembly for delivery of the pumpable material to a top surface of the rail head, and a securing device for securing the applicator assembly to the rail.
- the applicator assembly includes an applicator body having an orifice for delivery of the pumpable material to the top surface of the rail.
- a spring resiliently urges the applicator body to a raised position in which the orifice is positioned for delivering the pumpable material to the top surface of the rail head.
- the spring is resiliently yieldable to permit the applicator body to move to a depressed position in the event the applicator is contacted by a train wheel.
- the applicator body thereafter is adapted to return to the raised position under the bias of the at least one spring.
- an apparatus for delivery of a pumpable material to a rail head of rail comprises an applicator assembly for delivery of the pumpable material to a top surface of the rail head.
- the applicator assembly includes an applicator body having an orifice for delivery of the pumpable material to the top surface of the rail.
- a spring resiliently urges the applicator body to a raised position in which the orifice is positioned for delivering the pumpable material to the top surface of the rail head.
- the spring is resiliently yieldable to permit the applicator body to move to a depressed position in the event the applicator is contacted by a train wheel.
- the applicator body thereafter is adapted to return to the raised position under the bias of the at least one spring.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective of a section of railroad track and a system for applying pumpable material to the rails of the track, a portion of the system being illustrated schematically;
- FIG. 2 is a front perspective of an applicator apparatus of the system of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 is a perspective of the applicator apparatus secured to a section of railroad track
- FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the applicator apparatus and associated rail taken in the plane containing the line 4 - 4 in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 5 is an enlarged, fragmentary cross-sectional view of a portion of FIG. 4 ;
- FIG. 6 is an exploded view of an applicator assembly of the applicator apparatus
- FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the applicator apparatus
- FIG. 8 is an exploded view of a securing device of the applicator apparatus
- FIG. 9 is a perspective of an applicator assembly secured to a section of railroad track and in its working position
- FIG. 10 is a view similar to FIG. 9 but showing the applicator assembly in its rail-servicing position.
- FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of the system.
- a conventional railroad track is shown as comprising a series of rail ties 12 and a pair of parallel rails, each generally indicated at 14 . Train wheels 16 rolling on the rails 14 are also shown.
- a system of this invention for applying a pumpable material to a rail head 18 of each rail 14 is indicated generally at 20 .
- the system is particularly adapted for applying a friction modifying material to the rail head 18 , and even more particularly adapted for applying a material that controls the friction between the rail 14 and the wheels 16 of a train.
- a suitable pump 22 delivers the pumpable material under pressure from a reservoir 24 through a main conduit 26 to the inlet 27 of a divider or distribution valve 28 .
- the pump may be a 24 VDC electric Flowmaster® pump
- the distribution valve may be a SSV Metering Device with cycle switch, both of which are manufactured and sold by Lincoln Industrial Corp., St. Louis, Mo.
- the distribution valve 28 equally divides the flowing material into multiple auxiliary conduits 30 , which direct the material to a pair of applicator apparatuses 32 .
- Each apparatus 32 is positioned adjacent a respective rail 14 on the outboard (field) side of the rail for applying the friction modifying material to a top surface 33 of the rail head 18 .
- the system 20 includes a wheel sensor 35 for detecting the presence of a train as it passes by the sensor. As illustrated schematically in FIG.
- the system 20 also includes a pressure switch 37 fluidly connected to the main conduit 26 between the pump 22 and the distribution valve 28 .
- the pump 22 , the distribution valve 28 , the wheel sensor 35 , and the pressure switch 37 are interfaced with a controller 39 , such as a microcontroller.
- each applicator apparatus 32 comprises an applicator assembly 40 and a securing device 41 for securing the applicator assembly to the respective rail 14 .
- Each applicator assembly 32 comprises an applicator bar (broadly, an applicator body), generally indicated at 42 , having three orifices 44 spaced along a length of the bar for receiving a pumpable material from the distribution valve 28 and delivering the material to the rail head 18 . It is understood that the applicator bar 42 may have more or less orifices without departing from the scope of the present invention.
- each orifice 44 has an inlet 46 ( FIG. 5 ) within the bar 42 communicating with a threaded bore 47 in the bar.
- the threaded bore 47 is sized and shaped to connect a threaded conduit fitting (not shown) on the end of one of the auxiliary conduits 30 to the bar 42 to deliver pumpable material to the orifice 44 .
- a counter bore 48 extending through the outboard face 50 of the bar 42 provides clearance for threading the conduit fitting in the bore 47 .
- Each orifice 44 also has an outlet 52 ( FIG. 5 ) which terminates at a discrete recess 54 formed in a top surface 56 and an inboard face 58 of the applicator bar 42 .
- each recess 54 has a generally concave surface which is configured to flare outward away from the orifice outlet 52 so that material exiting the orifice 44 spreads to cover a larger surface of the rail head 18 .
- Other recess configurations are possible.
- each orifice 44 tapers from its outlet 52 to its inlet 46 so that the inlet has a smaller cross-sectional area or diameter than the outlet.
- the illustrated distribution valve 28 includes a single inlet 27 and six outlets 45 , three of which direct material to one of the applicator bars 42 and the other three direct pumpable material to the other of the applicator bars.
- the valve 28 is a progressive, positive displacement valve that equally or substantially equally divides the pumpable material so that the same amount or substantially the same amount of material exits the valve through each of the outlets 45 .
- a suitable valve of this type is described in detail in U.S. Pat. No. 6,719,095, which is assigned to Lincoln Industrial Corporation and is incorporated herein by reference.
- Each outlet 45 is dedicated to only one of the orifices 44
- each auxiliary conduit 30 is dedicated to one of the orifices and one of the outlets to fluidly connect the respective outlet and orifice.
- This arrangement of the dedicated valve distribution outlets 45 and auxiliary conduits 30 , along with the tapered orifices 44 facilitates removal of any dried pumpable material and/or other debris clogging the orifices 44 . If one or more of the orifices is clogged, the pumpable material being delivered from the distribution valve 28 cannot exit the respective conduit 30 because the clogged orifice 44 is the only exit.
- fluid pressure increases at the inlet 46 of the orifice(s) because the distribution valve will continue to direct the same amount of material to each of its outlets, including the outlet(s) associated with the clogged orifice(s), regardless of any fluid pressure differential between the outlets.
- the inlet 46 further facilitates a large fluid pressure build-up because of its small cross-sectional area. The fluid pressure continues to increase at the inlet 46 until the dried material causing the blockage is forced out of the orifice, allowing the pumpable material to flow through the orifice to the rail head 18 .
- the applicator assembly 40 also includes a base 64 positioned below the applicator bar 42 .
- the base 64 is also elongate in the illustrated embodiment, having a length comparable to the length of the applicator bar 42 , although other lengths not comparable to the applicator bar are possible.
- two bolts (broadly, guides), each generally indicated at 66 , connect the base 64 and the applicator bar 42 for guiding the applicator bar between raised and depressed positions, as will explained.
- Each bolt 66 has a head 68 and a shank 70 with a threaded free end.
- the shank 70 of the bolt 66 extends up through a bushing 71 received in a clearance through bore 72 in the base 64 , and the free end of the shank 70 is threaded into a blind bore 74 in the applicator bar 42 .
- the head 68 of the bolt 66 contacts the bushing 71 and presses the bushing against the bottom of the base 64 .
- Coil compression springs 76 are disposed around the shanks 70 of the bolts 66 between the applicator bar 42 and the base 64 and function to urge the applicator bar 42 toward its raised position ( FIGS. 4 and 5 ) in which the orifices 44 are located for delivering the friction modifying material to the top surface 33 of the rail head 18 .
- the springs 76 are resiliently yieldable to permit the applicator bar 42 to move to its depressed position in the event the applicator bar is contacted by a train wheel 16 .
- the wheels 16 on a train will not contact the applicator bar 42 of the applicator assembly 40 . However, if the wheel 16 and/or the rail head 18 are worn, contact is possible.
- the applicator bar 42 will move in a downward direction against the bias of the springs 76 to prevent or minimize damage to the bar.
- the bar 42 automatically returns to its initial position after such contact has ended.
- the fact that the outlets 52 of the orifices 44 are disposed below the top surface 56 of the bar 42 due to the recesses 54 further reduces any risk of damage to the orifices.
- the configurations of the applicator bar 42 and the bolts 66 and the numbers of bolts and/or springs can vary without departing from the scope of this invention. Further, other ways of guiding the applicator bar or body besides the use of bolts 66 are within the scope of the invention.
- the applicator assembly 40 also includes a mount, generally indicated at 78 , for mounting the base on the securing device 41 .
- the mount 78 comprises an elongate mounting plate 80 having opposite end sections connected by a narrower central section. The end sections have a pair of parallel vertical slots 82 therein for receiving fasteners 84 which thread into blind bores 86 in the base 64 to fasten the base to the mount 78 .
- the fasteners 84 press lock washers 85 a and flat washers 85 b against the mounting plate 80 .
- the fasteners 84 are loosened to permit vertical adjustment of the base 64 and applicator bar 42 relative to the mount 78 and then tightened to secure the base in fixed position with the orifices 44 in the bar at the desired position relative to the top surface 33 of the railhead 18 .
- the mount 78 also includes a pair of pivot rods 88 extending laterally (horizontally) outward from the ends sections of the mounting plate 80 for pivotable attachment to the securing device 41 , as will be explained.
- a pair of locking blocks 90 each defining a threaded blind bore 92 , fixes the applicator assembly 40 in a selected angular working position, as will also be explained.
- the securing device 41 comprises a pair of clamps, each generally indicated at 94 , for clamping against a lower flange 99 ( FIG. 9 ) of the rail 14 .
- Each clamp 94 comprises a base, generally indicated at 97 , having a notch 98 in one end for receiving an outboard edge of a lower flange 99 of the rail 14 ( FIG. 9 ), and a J-bolt 100 attached to the base for clamping against an inboard edge of the lower flange ( FIG. 3 ).
- a pair of clamps each generally indicated at 94 for clamping against a lower flange 99 ( FIG. 9 ) of the rail 14 .
- Each clamp 94 comprises a base, generally indicated at 97 , having a notch 98 in one end for receiving an outboard edge of a lower flange 99 of the rail 14 ( FIG. 9 ), and a J-bolt 100 attached to the base for clamping against an inboard edge of the lower flange ( FIG. 3 ).
- the base 97 of the clamp 94 includes a rectangular center tube 102 and a pair of side plates 104 affixed (e.g., by welding) to opposite sides of the center tube.
- the center tube 102 is adapted for receiving a threaded end of the respective J-bolt 100 , which is tightened into clamping engagement with the rail 14 by threading a nut 106 on the J-bolt against a spring-lock washer 108 and a flat washer 110 which butts up against the center tube.
- the clamp 94 may be fabricated in other ways. For reasons which will appear, a pivot block 112 is attached, such as by welding, to a top face of the base 97 . Other devices may be used for securing the applicator assembly 40 to the rail 14 .
- the pivot rods 88 of the mount 78 are received in horizontal bores 114 in the bases 97 of the two clamps 94 to allow the applicator assembly 40 to be pivoted upward and downward about a generally horizontal axis between a working position, as shown in FIGS. 3 , 4 and 9 , and a rail-service position, as shown in FIG. 10 .
- the applicator bar 42 of the assembly 40 is adjacent to the rail head 18 , and preferably closely adjacent the rail head, and even more preferably in contact with the rail head to minimize material leaking down between the rail head and the bar to the ground.
- the rail-service position the applicator bar 42 is remote from the railhead 18 so that the rail 14 may be serviced.
- the applicator assembly 40 may be movable between the stated working and rail-service positions in other ways.
- a releasable locking mechanism is provided for locking the applicator assembly 40 in its working position and for unlocking the applicator assembly to permit movement of the applicator assembly to its rail-service position.
- this locking mechanism 116 comprises a latching bar 118 pivotally attached to each of the pivot blocks 112 on the bases 97 of the clamps 94 .
- each latching bar 118 has a clearance hole 120 adjacent one end for receiving the shank 122 of a pivot member (e.g., a threaded bolt), generally indicated at 124 , which threads into a bore 126 in a respective pivot block 112 .
- a slot 128 extends lengthwise of the latching bar 118 from a location adjacent the end of the bar opposite the clearance hole 120 .
- a shank 132 of a locking member extends through the slot 128 of the latching bar 118 and threads into the bore 92 of the locking block 90 affixed to the mounting plate 80 . Tightening the locking member 134 in the locking block 90 locks the applicator assembly 40 in a selected position, while loosening the locking member permits movement of the locking member in the slot 128 along the length of the latching bar 118 to provide limited pivotal adjustment of the applicator assembly.
- the latching bar 118 also has an opening 136 extending transversely into the slot 128 .
- the latching bar 118 may be pivoted upward about the pivot member 124 so that the latching bar disengages the locking member as the locking member exits the slot 128 through the transverse opening 136 .
- the applicator assembly 40 may be pivoted down to its rail-servicing position.
- the transverse opening 136 also permits the locking member 134 to enter the slot 128 as the latching bar 118 is rotated downward to reengage the latching bar and the locking member.
- each applicator assembly 40 is installed on the respective rail 14 , the pivot rods 88 are inserted into the horizontal bores 114 of the clamps 94 , and the clamps are secured to the rail.
- the applicator assembly 40 is rotated to a generally vertical position, and the latching bars 118 are rotated downward so that the locking members 134 enter the slots 128 through the transverse openings 136 .
- the height of the applicator bar 42 is adjusted by loosening the fasteners 84 extending into the base 64 of the applicator assembly 40 and sliding the base upward or downward relative to the mounting plate 80 so that the outlets 52 of the orifices 44 are generally adjacent to the top surface 33 of the rail head 18 .
- the fasteners 84 are tightened to lock the applicator bar 42 in the selected vertical position.
- the angular position of the assembly 40 is adjusted by pivoting the assembly about the pivot members 88 in the clamps 94 so that the inner face 58 of the bar contacts the rail 14 .
- the slots 128 allow limited pivotal movement of the assembly 40 when the locking members 134 are received in the slots.
- the assembly 40 With the applicator assembly 40 in the proper working position, the assembly 40 is locked by tightening the locking members 134 extending through the latching bars 118 . In this position, the applicator assembly 34 is in its proper working position so that material dispensed from each orifice 44 is applied to the top surface 33 of the rail head 18 .
- the auxiliary conduits 30 may be secured to the applicator assemblies 40 and the remaining components of the system 20 may be connected and assembled before or after attaching the applicator assemblies to the respective rails 14 .
- each assembly 40 may be selectively and repeatedly moved to the rail-service position to service the respective rail 14 and back to the working position after service.
- the locking members 134 are loosened, and the latching bars 118 are pivoted upward so that the locking members exit the slots 128 through the transverse openings 136 .
- the assembly 40 may be rotated down to its rail-servicing position. After service on the rail 14 has been completed, the assembly 40 is rotated up and properly positioned in its working position in the manner described above with respect to installation.
- the pump 22 , the distribution valve 28 , the wheel sensor 35 and the pressure switch 37 are interfaced with the controller 39 .
- Dashed lines in FIG. 11 indicate communication between the controller 39 and respective components, while solid lines indicate fluid communication, such as the main conduit 26 and the auxiliary conduits 30 . Communication between the controller 39 and the components may be transmitted through wires or may be wireless.
- the controller 39 when the applicator assemblies 40 are in their working positions and a train is approaching the wheel sensor 35 detects the wheels 16 of the train and sends an electrical wheel signal indicative of such detection to the controller 39 . Each time the sensor 35 detects a wheel, a signal is sent to the controller 39 . To ensure that the friction modifying material is not delivered until after the locomotive(s) of the train has passed the applicator assemblies 40 , the controller 39 does not immediately activate the pump 22 upon receipt of the wheel signal. Instead, the controller 39 is programmed to activate an internal time-counter and an internal wheel-counter. Using the time-counter, the controller 39 records an amount of time that has elapsed from when it received the first wheel signal.
- the controller 39 Using the wheel-counter, the controller 39 records the number of wheel signals received by the controller from the wheel detector.
- An adjustable, preset time-threshold and an adjustable, preset first wheel-threshold is programmed in the controller 39 so that after both the time-counter reaches the time-threshold and the wheel-counter reaches the first wheel-threshold, an activation signal is sent by the controller to pump 22 .
- the activation signal activates the pump 22 to deliver the friction modifying material to the distribution valve 28 via the main conduit 26 .
- the pressure switch 37 is fluidly connected to the main conduit 26 and sends a malfunction signal to the controller 39 if the distribution valve 28 or fluid lines are clogged.
- the controller 39 shuts down the pump 22 if the controller receives the malfunction signal to prevent damaging the pump and/or other parts of the system.
- the distribution valve 28 divides the material flow equally into the multiple auxiliary conduits 30 .
- the distribution valve 28 measures the volume of material flowing to the auxiliary conduits 30 and sends a cycle-signal to the controller 39 when a preset volume (e.g., 0.036 in 3 ) of material has been delivered to each of the applicator assemblies 40 .
- the controller 39 is programmed to activate an internal cycle-counter to record the number of cycle signals it receives from the distribution valve 28 . When the cycle-counter reaches an adjustable, preset cycle-threshold, the controller 39 sends a deactivation-signal to the pump 22 and the pump deactivates.
- the wheel sensor 35 continuously sends the wheel-signals to the controller 39 after detection of the first wheel 16 , and the controller continuously records the number of signals received using the wheel counter.
- the controller 39 sends another activation-signal to the pump 22 to begin another round of application of the material.
- the controller 39 may be adjustably programmed to deliver additional cycles or rounds of applications to the rails 14 .
- the controller, the pump 22 and the distribution valve 28 are turned off to conserve energy until the wheel sensor sends another signal indicative of another train to the controller.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Coating Apparatus (AREA)
Abstract
An applicator assembly for delivery of a pumpable material to a top surface of a rail head of rail includes an applicator body having an orifice for delivery of the pumpable material to the top surface of the rail. The body is resiliently yieldable to permit the applicator body to move from a raised position, in which the orifice is positioned for delivering the pumpable material to the top surface of the rail head, to a depressed position in the event the applicator is contacted by a train wheel. The applicator body thereafter is adapted to return to the raised position.
Description
- This invention relates to an apparatus for applying pumpable material to a rail head of a rail, and more particularly to an apparatus for applying a friction modifying material to a rail head of a railroad rail.
- It is common practice to apply lubricants (e.g., grease) and other friction modifying materials onto railroad rails, such as to the tops or sides of the rails at or near curves, turnouts, switches and other locations where such materials are needed or desired. As applied to the rails, such materials either reduce or increase the friction where necessary to improve train performance and reduce wear on both the rails and the train wheels.
- In the case of a friction modifying material that controls the friction between the train wheel and the rail, the conventional practice is to apply the material to the top of the rail to contact the train wheels. However, such prior art devices have been less than satisfactory for any number of reasons.
- It is an objective of this invention, therefore, to provide an improved apparatus for delivering such material to a rail head.
- In one aspect of the invention, an applicator assembly for delivery of a pumpable material to a top surface of a rail head of rail generally comprises an applicator body having at least one orifice for delivery of the pumpable material to the top surface of the rail. The body is resiliently yieldable to permit the applicator body to move from a raised position, in which the orifice is positioned for delivering the pumpable material to the top surface of the rail head, to a depressed position in the event the applicator is contacted by a train wheel. The applicator body thereafter is adapted to return to the raised position.
- In another aspect, an applicator apparatus for delivery of a pumpable material to a rail head of rail generally comprises an applicator assembly for delivery of the pumpable material to a top surface of the rail head, and a securing device for securing the applicator assembly to the rail. The applicator assembly includes an applicator body having an orifice for delivery of the pumpable material to the top surface of the rail. A spring resiliently urges the applicator body to a raised position in which the orifice is positioned for delivering the pumpable material to the top surface of the rail head. The spring is resiliently yieldable to permit the applicator body to move to a depressed position in the event the applicator is contacted by a train wheel. The applicator body thereafter is adapted to return to the raised position under the bias of the at least one spring.
- In yet another aspect, an apparatus for delivery of a pumpable material to a rail head of rail comprises an applicator assembly for delivery of the pumpable material to a top surface of the rail head. The applicator assembly includes an applicator body having an orifice for delivery of the pumpable material to the top surface of the rail. A spring resiliently urges the applicator body to a raised position in which the orifice is positioned for delivering the pumpable material to the top surface of the rail head. The spring is resiliently yieldable to permit the applicator body to move to a depressed position in the event the applicator is contacted by a train wheel. The applicator body thereafter is adapted to return to the raised position under the bias of the at least one spring.
- Other objects and features will be in part apparent and in part pointed out hereinafter.
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective of a section of railroad track and a system for applying pumpable material to the rails of the track, a portion of the system being illustrated schematically; -
FIG. 2 is a front perspective of an applicator apparatus of the system ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a perspective of the applicator apparatus secured to a section of railroad track; -
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the applicator apparatus and associated rail taken in the plane containing the line 4-4 inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 5 is an enlarged, fragmentary cross-sectional view of a portion ofFIG. 4 ; -
FIG. 6 is an exploded view of an applicator assembly of the applicator apparatus; -
FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the applicator apparatus; -
FIG. 8 is an exploded view of a securing device of the applicator apparatus; -
FIG. 9 is a perspective of an applicator assembly secured to a section of railroad track and in its working position; -
FIG. 10 is a view similar toFIG. 9 but showing the applicator assembly in its rail-servicing position; and -
FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of the system. - Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings.
- Referring to
FIG. 1 , a conventional railroad track, generally indicated at 10, is shown as comprising a series ofrail ties 12 and a pair of parallel rails, each generally indicated at 14.Train wheels 16 rolling on therails 14 are also shown. A system of this invention for applying a pumpable material to arail head 18 of eachrail 14 is indicated generally at 20. The system is particularly adapted for applying a friction modifying material to therail head 18, and even more particularly adapted for applying a material that controls the friction between therail 14 and thewheels 16 of a train. Asuitable pump 22 delivers the pumpable material under pressure from areservoir 24 through amain conduit 26 to theinlet 27 of a divider ordistribution valve 28. For example, the pump may be a 24 VDC electric Flowmaster® pump, and the distribution valve may be a SSV Metering Device with cycle switch, both of which are manufactured and sold by Lincoln Industrial Corp., St. Louis, Mo. Thedistribution valve 28 equally divides the flowing material into multipleauxiliary conduits 30, which direct the material to a pair ofapplicator apparatuses 32. Eachapparatus 32 is positioned adjacent arespective rail 14 on the outboard (field) side of the rail for applying the friction modifying material to atop surface 33 of therail head 18. As described in more detail below, thesystem 20 includes awheel sensor 35 for detecting the presence of a train as it passes by the sensor. As illustrated schematically inFIG. 11 and explained in more detail below, thesystem 20 also includes apressure switch 37 fluidly connected to themain conduit 26 between thepump 22 and thedistribution valve 28. Thepump 22, thedistribution valve 28, thewheel sensor 35, and thepressure switch 37 are interfaced with acontroller 39, such as a microcontroller. - Referring to
FIG. 2 , eachapplicator apparatus 32 comprises anapplicator assembly 40 and asecuring device 41 for securing the applicator assembly to therespective rail 14. Eachapplicator assembly 32 comprises an applicator bar (broadly, an applicator body), generally indicated at 42, having threeorifices 44 spaced along a length of the bar for receiving a pumpable material from thedistribution valve 28 and delivering the material to therail head 18. It is understood that theapplicator bar 42 may have more or less orifices without departing from the scope of the present invention. - Referring to
FIGS. 4 and 5 , eachorifice 44 has an inlet 46 (FIG. 5 ) within thebar 42 communicating with a threadedbore 47 in the bar. The threadedbore 47 is sized and shaped to connect a threaded conduit fitting (not shown) on the end of one of theauxiliary conduits 30 to thebar 42 to deliver pumpable material to theorifice 44. Acounter bore 48 extending through theoutboard face 50 of thebar 42 provides clearance for threading the conduit fitting in thebore 47. Eachorifice 44 also has an outlet 52 (FIG. 5 ) which terminates at adiscrete recess 54 formed in atop surface 56 and aninboard face 58 of theapplicator bar 42. Theorifice outlets 52 are disposed below thetop surface 56 of thebar 42 by virtue of therecesses 54, thus protecting the orifices against damage from thetrain wheels 16 passing over the applicator assembly 34, as will be discussed later. As shown best inFIG. 2 , eachrecess 54 has a generally concave surface which is configured to flare outward away from theorifice outlet 52 so that material exiting theorifice 44 spreads to cover a larger surface of therail head 18. Other recess configurations are possible. For reasons explained below, eachorifice 44 tapers from itsoutlet 52 to itsinlet 46 so that the inlet has a smaller cross-sectional area or diameter than the outlet. - Referring to
FIGS. 1 and 1A , the illustrateddistribution valve 28 includes asingle inlet 27 and sixoutlets 45, three of which direct material to one of theapplicator bars 42 and the other three direct pumpable material to the other of the applicator bars. As briefly stated above, thevalve 28 is a progressive, positive displacement valve that equally or substantially equally divides the pumpable material so that the same amount or substantially the same amount of material exits the valve through each of theoutlets 45. A suitable valve of this type is described in detail in U.S. Pat. No. 6,719,095, which is assigned to Lincoln Industrial Corporation and is incorporated herein by reference. Eachoutlet 45 is dedicated to only one of theorifices 44, and eachauxiliary conduit 30 is dedicated to one of the orifices and one of the outlets to fluidly connect the respective outlet and orifice. This arrangement of the dedicatedvalve distribution outlets 45 andauxiliary conduits 30, along with thetapered orifices 44, facilitates removal of any dried pumpable material and/or other debris clogging theorifices 44. If one or more of the orifices is clogged, the pumpable material being delivered from thedistribution valve 28 cannot exit therespective conduit 30 because the cloggedorifice 44 is the only exit. Thus, fluid pressure increases at theinlet 46 of the orifice(s) because the distribution valve will continue to direct the same amount of material to each of its outlets, including the outlet(s) associated with the clogged orifice(s), regardless of any fluid pressure differential between the outlets. Theinlet 46 further facilitates a large fluid pressure build-up because of its small cross-sectional area. The fluid pressure continues to increase at theinlet 46 until the dried material causing the blockage is forced out of the orifice, allowing the pumpable material to flow through the orifice to therail head 18. - Referring to
FIGS. 2 , 4, 6 and 7, theapplicator assembly 40 also includes a base 64 positioned below theapplicator bar 42. Thebase 64 is also elongate in the illustrated embodiment, having a length comparable to the length of theapplicator bar 42, although other lengths not comparable to the applicator bar are possible. As shown best inFIG. 6 , two bolts (broadly, guides), each generally indicated at 66, connect thebase 64 and theapplicator bar 42 for guiding the applicator bar between raised and depressed positions, as will explained. Eachbolt 66 has ahead 68 and ashank 70 with a threaded free end. Theshank 70 of thebolt 66 extends up through abushing 71 received in a clearance throughbore 72 in thebase 64, and the free end of theshank 70 is threaded into ablind bore 74 in theapplicator bar 42. Thehead 68 of thebolt 66 contacts thebushing 71 and presses the bushing against the bottom of thebase 64. - Coil compression springs 76 are disposed around the
shanks 70 of thebolts 66 between theapplicator bar 42 and thebase 64 and function to urge theapplicator bar 42 toward its raised position (FIGS. 4 and 5 ) in which theorifices 44 are located for delivering the friction modifying material to thetop surface 33 of therail head 18. Thesprings 76 are resiliently yieldable to permit theapplicator bar 42 to move to its depressed position in the event the applicator bar is contacted by atrain wheel 16. Typically, thewheels 16 on a train will not contact theapplicator bar 42 of theapplicator assembly 40. However, if thewheel 16 and/or therail head 18 are worn, contact is possible. If contact occurs, theapplicator bar 42 will move in a downward direction against the bias of thesprings 76 to prevent or minimize damage to the bar. Thebar 42 automatically returns to its initial position after such contact has ended. The fact that theoutlets 52 of theorifices 44 are disposed below thetop surface 56 of thebar 42 due to therecesses 54 further reduces any risk of damage to the orifices. It will be understood that the configurations of theapplicator bar 42 and thebolts 66 and the numbers of bolts and/or springs can vary without departing from the scope of this invention. Further, other ways of guiding the applicator bar or body besides the use ofbolts 66 are within the scope of the invention. - Referring to
FIG. 7 , theapplicator assembly 40 also includes a mount, generally indicated at 78, for mounting the base on the securingdevice 41. In the illustrated embodiment (seeFIG. 7 ), themount 78 comprises an elongate mountingplate 80 having opposite end sections connected by a narrower central section. The end sections have a pair of parallelvertical slots 82 therein for receivingfasteners 84 which thread into blind bores 86 in the base 64 to fasten the base to themount 78. Thefasteners 84press lock washers 85 a andflat washers 85 b against the mountingplate 80. Thefasteners 84 are loosened to permit vertical adjustment of thebase 64 andapplicator bar 42 relative to themount 78 and then tightened to secure the base in fixed position with theorifices 44 in the bar at the desired position relative to thetop surface 33 of therailhead 18. Themount 78 also includes a pair ofpivot rods 88 extending laterally (horizontally) outward from the ends sections of the mountingplate 80 for pivotable attachment to the securingdevice 41, as will be explained. A pair of locking blocks 90, each defining a threaded blind bore 92, fixes theapplicator assembly 40 in a selected angular working position, as will also be explained. - Referring still to
FIG. 7 , the securingdevice 41 comprises a pair of clamps, each generally indicated at 94, for clamping against a lower flange 99 (FIG. 9 ) of therail 14. Eachclamp 94 comprises a base, generally indicated at 97, having anotch 98 in one end for receiving an outboard edge of alower flange 99 of the rail 14 (FIG. 9 ), and a J-bolt 100 attached to the base for clamping against an inboard edge of the lower flange (FIG. 3 ). In the illustrated embodiment, as shown best inFIG. 8 , thebase 97 of theclamp 94 includes arectangular center tube 102 and a pair ofside plates 104 affixed (e.g., by welding) to opposite sides of the center tube. Thecenter tube 102 is adapted for receiving a threaded end of the respective J-bolt 100, which is tightened into clamping engagement with therail 14 by threading anut 106 on the J-bolt against a spring-lock washer 108 and aflat washer 110 which butts up against the center tube. Theclamp 94 may be fabricated in other ways. For reasons which will appear, apivot block 112 is attached, such as by welding, to a top face of thebase 97. Other devices may be used for securing theapplicator assembly 40 to therail 14. - Referring to
FIG. 7 , thepivot rods 88 of themount 78 are received inhorizontal bores 114 in thebases 97 of the twoclamps 94 to allow theapplicator assembly 40 to be pivoted upward and downward about a generally horizontal axis between a working position, as shown inFIGS. 3 , 4 and 9, and a rail-service position, as shown inFIG. 10 . In the working position, theapplicator bar 42 of theassembly 40 is adjacent to therail head 18, and preferably closely adjacent the rail head, and even more preferably in contact with the rail head to minimize material leaking down between the rail head and the bar to the ground. In the rail-service position, theapplicator bar 42 is remote from therailhead 18 so that therail 14 may be serviced. Theapplicator assembly 40 may be movable between the stated working and rail-service positions in other ways. - Referring to
FIG. 7 , a releasable locking mechanism, generally designated 116, is provided for locking theapplicator assembly 40 in its working position and for unlocking the applicator assembly to permit movement of the applicator assembly to its rail-service position. In one embodiment, thislocking mechanism 116 comprises a latchingbar 118 pivotally attached to each of the pivot blocks 112 on thebases 97 of theclamps 94. Referring particularly toFIG. 8 , each latchingbar 118 has aclearance hole 120 adjacent one end for receiving theshank 122 of a pivot member (e.g., a threaded bolt), generally indicated at 124, which threads into abore 126 in arespective pivot block 112. Aslot 128 extends lengthwise of the latchingbar 118 from a location adjacent the end of the bar opposite theclearance hole 120. - As shown best in
FIG. 7 , ashank 132 of a locking member (e.g., threaded bolt), generally indicated at 134, extends through theslot 128 of the latchingbar 118 and threads into thebore 92 of the lockingblock 90 affixed to the mountingplate 80. Tightening the lockingmember 134 in the lockingblock 90 locks theapplicator assembly 40 in a selected position, while loosening the locking member permits movement of the locking member in theslot 128 along the length of the latchingbar 118 to provide limited pivotal adjustment of the applicator assembly. - The latching
bar 118 also has anopening 136 extending transversely into theslot 128. When the lockingmember 134 is loosened in the lockingblock 90, the latchingbar 118 may be pivoted upward about thepivot member 124 so that the latching bar disengages the locking member as the locking member exits theslot 128 through thetransverse opening 136. When the latching bars 118 and locking members are disengaged, theapplicator assembly 40 may be pivoted down to its rail-servicing position. Thetransverse opening 136 also permits the lockingmember 134 to enter theslot 128 as the latchingbar 118 is rotated downward to reengage the latching bar and the locking member. - To install each
applicator assembly 40 on therespective rail 14, thepivot rods 88 are inserted into thehorizontal bores 114 of theclamps 94, and the clamps are secured to the rail. Theapplicator assembly 40 is rotated to a generally vertical position, and the latching bars 118 are rotated downward so that the lockingmembers 134 enter theslots 128 through thetransverse openings 136. With the lockingmembers 134 received in theslots 128, the height of theapplicator bar 42 is adjusted by loosening thefasteners 84 extending into thebase 64 of theapplicator assembly 40 and sliding the base upward or downward relative to the mountingplate 80 so that theoutlets 52 of theorifices 44 are generally adjacent to thetop surface 33 of therail head 18. Thefasteners 84 are tightened to lock theapplicator bar 42 in the selected vertical position. - The angular position of the
assembly 40 is adjusted by pivoting the assembly about thepivot members 88 in theclamps 94 so that theinner face 58 of the bar contacts therail 14. As stated above, theslots 128 allow limited pivotal movement of theassembly 40 when the lockingmembers 134 are received in the slots. With theapplicator assembly 40 in the proper working position, theassembly 40 is locked by tightening the lockingmembers 134 extending through the latching bars 118. In this position, the applicator assembly 34 is in its proper working position so that material dispensed from eachorifice 44 is applied to thetop surface 33 of therail head 18. Theauxiliary conduits 30 may be secured to theapplicator assemblies 40 and the remaining components of thesystem 20 may be connected and assembled before or after attaching the applicator assemblies to the respective rails 14. - After installation, each
assembly 40 may be selectively and repeatedly moved to the rail-service position to service therespective rail 14 and back to the working position after service. To move eachapplicator assembly 40 to the rail-service position, the lockingmembers 134 are loosened, and the latching bars 118 are pivoted upward so that the locking members exit theslots 128 through thetransverse openings 136. With the latching bars 118 disengaged from the locking members 138, theassembly 40 may be rotated down to its rail-servicing position. After service on therail 14 has been completed, theassembly 40 is rotated up and properly positioned in its working position in the manner described above with respect to installation. - As mentioned above and schematically illustrated in
FIG. 11 , thepump 22, thedistribution valve 28, thewheel sensor 35 and thepressure switch 37 are interfaced with thecontroller 39. Dashed lines inFIG. 11 indicate communication between thecontroller 39 and respective components, while solid lines indicate fluid communication, such as themain conduit 26 and theauxiliary conduits 30. Communication between thecontroller 39 and the components may be transmitted through wires or may be wireless. - Referring to
FIGS. 1 and 11 , when theapplicator assemblies 40 are in their working positions and a train is approaching thewheel sensor 35 detects thewheels 16 of the train and sends an electrical wheel signal indicative of such detection to thecontroller 39. Each time thesensor 35 detects a wheel, a signal is sent to thecontroller 39. To ensure that the friction modifying material is not delivered until after the locomotive(s) of the train has passed theapplicator assemblies 40, thecontroller 39 does not immediately activate thepump 22 upon receipt of the wheel signal. Instead, thecontroller 39 is programmed to activate an internal time-counter and an internal wheel-counter. Using the time-counter, thecontroller 39 records an amount of time that has elapsed from when it received the first wheel signal. Using the wheel-counter, thecontroller 39 records the number of wheel signals received by the controller from the wheel detector. An adjustable, preset time-threshold and an adjustable, preset first wheel-threshold is programmed in thecontroller 39 so that after both the time-counter reaches the time-threshold and the wheel-counter reaches the first wheel-threshold, an activation signal is sent by the controller to pump 22. The activation signal activates thepump 22 to deliver the friction modifying material to thedistribution valve 28 via themain conduit 26. Thepressure switch 37 is fluidly connected to themain conduit 26 and sends a malfunction signal to thecontroller 39 if thedistribution valve 28 or fluid lines are clogged. Thecontroller 39 shuts down thepump 22 if the controller receives the malfunction signal to prevent damaging the pump and/or other parts of the system. - Referring still to
FIGS. 1 and 11 , thedistribution valve 28 divides the material flow equally into the multipleauxiliary conduits 30. Thedistribution valve 28 measures the volume of material flowing to theauxiliary conduits 30 and sends a cycle-signal to thecontroller 39 when a preset volume (e.g., 0.036 in3) of material has been delivered to each of theapplicator assemblies 40. Thecontroller 39 is programmed to activate an internal cycle-counter to record the number of cycle signals it receives from thedistribution valve 28. When the cycle-counter reaches an adjustable, preset cycle-threshold, thecontroller 39 sends a deactivation-signal to thepump 22 and the pump deactivates. - The
wheel sensor 35 continuously sends the wheel-signals to thecontroller 39 after detection of thefirst wheel 16, and the controller continuously records the number of signals received using the wheel counter. When the wheel-counter reaches an adjustable, preset second wheel-threshold, thecontroller 39 sends another activation-signal to thepump 22 to begin another round of application of the material. Thecontroller 39 may be adjustably programmed to deliver additional cycles or rounds of applications to therails 14. When thewheel sensor 35 is no longer detecting thewheels 16 of the train (e.g., when a certain threshold amount of time has passed since the wheel detector last sent a signal to the controller 39), the controller, thepump 22 and thedistribution valve 28 are turned off to conserve energy until the wheel sensor sends another signal indicative of another train to the controller. - Having described the illustrated embodiments of the invention in detail, it will be apparent that modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of the invention defined in the appended claims.
- When introducing elements of the present invention or the preferred embodiment(s) thereof, the articles “a”, “an”, “the” and “said” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms “comprising”, “including” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements.
- In view of the above, it will be seen that the several objects of the invention are achieved and other advantageous results attained.
- As various changes could be made in the above constructions, products, and methods without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.
Claims (25)
1. An applicator assembly for delivery of a pumpable material to a top surface of a rail head of rail, the assembly comprising:
an applicator body having an orifice for delivery of said pumpable material to the top surface of the rail, said body being resiliently yieldable to permit the applicator body to move from a raised position, in which the orifice is positioned for delivering said pumpable material to the top surface of the rail head, to a depressed position in the event the applicator is contacted by a train wheel, the applicator body thereafter being adapted to return to said raised position.
2. An applicator assembly as set forth in claim 1 further comprising a spring resiliently urging the applicator body to the raised position, the spring being resiliently yieldable to permit the applicator body to move to the depressed position in the event the applicator is contacted by a train wheel, the applicator body thereafter being adapted to return to said raised position under the bias of the spring.
3. An applicator assembly as set forth in claim 2 wherein said applicator body comprises an elongate applicator bar having a plurality of orifices spaced at intervals along the bar.
4. An applicator assembly as set forth in claim 3 in combination with a distribution valve having a plurality of outlets, and a plurality of auxiliary conduits connected to the distribution valve outlets for delivering the pumpable material from the distribution valve to the orifices, wherein each distribution valve outlet is dedicated solely to only one of the orifices via one of the auxiliary conduits.
5. An applicator assembly as set forth in claim 4 wherein the distribution valve is operable to distribute substantially the same amount of pumpable material through each of the outlets regardless of any pressure differential between the outlets.
6. An applicator assembly as set forth in claim 3 comprising a base and a guide connecting the base and the applicator bar for guiding the applicator bar between said raised and depressed positions.
7. An applicator assembly as set forth in claim 6 wherein the spring comprises a coil compression spring disposed around the guide between the base and the applicator bar.
8. An applicator assembly as set forth in claim 1 in combination with a securing device for securing the applicator assembly to the rail.
9. An applicator assembly as set forth in claim 8 wherein the applicator body is adjustable relative to said securing device to vary the height of said orifice relative to the top surface of the rail head.
10. An applicator assembly as set forth in claim 9 further comprising a mount for mounting the base on said securing device, said base being adjustable relative to the mount to vary the height of said orifice relative to the top surface of the rail head.
11. An applicator assembly as set forth in claim 9 , wherein said applicator assembly is connected to said securing device for movement between a working position in which the applicator body is closely adjacent the rail head and a rail-service position in which the applicator body is remote from the rail head.
12. An applicator assembly as set forth in claim 11 further comprising a releasable locking mechanism for locking said applicator assembly in said working position, said locking mechanism being releasable to permit movement of the applicator assembly between said working and rail-servicing positions.
13. An applicator assembly as set forth in claim 11 wherein applicator assembly is connected to the securing device for pivotal movement between said working and rail-service positions.
14. An applicator assembly as set forth in claim 1 wherein said orifice has an inlet and an outlet, said outlet being recessed below a top surface of the applicator body.
15. An applicator assembly as set forth in claim 14 further comprising a discrete recess in at least a top surface of the applicator body communicating with the outlet of the orifice.
16. An applicator assembly as set forth in claim 15 wherein the recess extends through an inboard face of the applicator body adjacent the rail during use.
17. An applicator assembly as set forth in claim 16 wherein the recess flares outward from the outlet of the orifice.
18. An applicator assembly as set forth in claim 14 wherein the orifice decreases in diameter from its outlet toward its inlet.
19. An applicator assembly as set forth in claim 8 wherein said securing device comprises a clamp for clamping the applicator assembly to a lower flange of the rail.
20. An applicator assembly as set forth in claim 1 in combination with a securing device for securing the applicator assembly to the rail, the applicator assembly further comprising
a base,
a guide connecting the base and the applicator body for guiding the applicator body between said raised and depressed positions,
a coil compression spring disposed around the guide between the base and the applicator body for resiliently urging the applicator body to said raised position, the spring being resiliently yieldable to permit the applicator body to move to said depressed position in the event the applicator is contacted by a train wheel, the applicator body thereafter being adapted to return to said raised position under the bias of the spring, and
a mount for mounting the base, spring and applicator body on said securing device, said applicator body being adjustable up and down relative to the mount to vary the height of said orifice relative to the top surface of the rail head.
21. An applicator assembly as set forth in claim 19 wherein said mount is pivoted on said securing device.
22. Apparatus for delivery of a pumpable material to a rail head of rail, said apparatus comprising:
an applicator assembly for delivery of the pumpable material to a top surface of the rail head;
a securing device for securing the applicator assembly to the rail;
said applicator assembly including
an applicator body having an orifice for delivery of said pumpable material to the top surface of the rail,
a spring resiliently urging the applicator body to a raised position in which the orifice is positioned for delivering said pumpable material to the top surface of the rail head,
the spring being resiliently yieldable to permit the applicator body to move to a depressed position in the event the applicator is contacted by a train wheel, the applicator body thereafter being adapted to return to said raised position under the bias of the spring.
23. Apparatus for delivery of a pumpable material to a rail head of rail, said apparatus comprising:
an applicator assembly for delivery of the pumpable material to a top surface of the rail head,
said applicator assembly including
an applicator body having an orifice for delivery of said pumpable material to the top surface of the rail,
a spring resiliently urging the applicator body to a raised position in which the orifice is positioned for delivering said pumpable material to the top surface of the rail head,
the spring being resiliently yieldable to permit the applicator body to move to a depressed position in the event the applicator is contacted by a train wheel, the applicator body thereafter being adapted to return to said raised position under the bias of the spring.
24. Apparatus for delivering a pumpable material to a rail head of a metal rail, said apparatus comprising:
an applicator assembly; and
a securing device for securing the applicator assembly to said rail;
said applicator assembly comprising an applicator body having a plurality of orifices for delivery of said pumpable material to the rail head, and a mount mounting the applicator body for movement between a working position in which the applicator body is closely adjacent the rail head for delivery of said pumpable material to the rail head and a rail-service position in which the applicator body is remote from the rail head.
25. Apparatus as set forth in claim 24 wherein said mount is attached to the securing device for pivotal movement between said working and rail-service positions.
Priority Applications (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/769,057 US20090000869A1 (en) | 2007-06-27 | 2007-06-27 | Apparatus for Applying a Pumpable Material to a Rail Head |
US12/141,452 US8584804B2 (en) | 2007-06-27 | 2008-06-18 | Apparatus for applying a pumpable material to a rail head |
US14/056,415 US8944215B2 (en) | 2007-06-27 | 2013-10-17 | Apparatus for delivering a pumpable material to a rail head |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/769,057 US20090000869A1 (en) | 2007-06-27 | 2007-06-27 | Apparatus for Applying a Pumpable Material to a Rail Head |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/141,452 Continuation-In-Part US8584804B2 (en) | 2007-06-27 | 2008-06-18 | Apparatus for applying a pumpable material to a rail head |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20090000869A1 true US20090000869A1 (en) | 2009-01-01 |
Family
ID=40159039
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/769,057 Abandoned US20090000869A1 (en) | 2007-06-27 | 2007-06-27 | Apparatus for Applying a Pumpable Material to a Rail Head |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20090000869A1 (en) |
Cited By (14)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20100300810A1 (en) * | 2009-05-29 | 2010-12-02 | Singleton Steven D | Top of Rail Foam Bar |
CN102897189A (en) * | 2011-07-25 | 2013-01-30 | 林肯有限公司 | Device for wetting or lubricating rail head |
US20140060972A1 (en) * | 2009-05-29 | 2014-03-06 | Glen Appleby | Top of rail resilient bar |
US8783416B2 (en) | 2008-09-19 | 2014-07-22 | L.B. Foster Rail Technologies, Inc. | Wiping bar quick clamp |
US20140318897A1 (en) * | 2012-01-28 | 2014-10-30 | Bojan Pavcnik | Line distributor, preferably for anti-noise device for rail brakes |
US20140339021A1 (en) * | 2011-06-10 | 2014-11-20 | Markus Mandera | Lubrication device |
US9022173B2 (en) | 2007-02-21 | 2015-05-05 | L.B. Foster Rail Technologies, Inc. | Grease guide |
US9096242B2 (en) | 2012-08-23 | 2015-08-04 | L.B. Foster Rail Technologies, Inc. | Gauge face lubrication |
WO2016094883A1 (en) * | 2014-12-12 | 2016-06-16 | The Whitmore Manufacturing Company | Top of rail applicator and method of using the same |
US10173700B2 (en) * | 2013-01-07 | 2019-01-08 | Whitmore Manufacturing, Llc | Top of rail applicator and method of using the same |
US10358152B2 (en) * | 2015-08-28 | 2019-07-23 | Loram Maintenance Of Way, Inc. | Method and apparatus for gauge-face lubrication |
EP3659895A1 (en) * | 2018-11-29 | 2020-06-03 | Whitmore Manufacturing, LLC. | An improved top of rail applicator |
US10960907B2 (en) | 2013-01-07 | 2021-03-30 | Whitmore Manufacturing, Llc | Top of rail applicator |
US20230382441A1 (en) * | 2022-05-25 | 2023-11-30 | Rbl, Inc. | Automatic switch plate lubrication assembly |
Citations (35)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1880672A (en) * | 1930-06-14 | 1932-10-04 | Maintenance Equipment Company | Wheel flange oiler |
US1883148A (en) * | 1928-10-11 | 1932-10-18 | Maintenance Equipment Company | Wheel flange oiler |
US1899767A (en) * | 1929-04-26 | 1933-02-28 | Railway Maintenance Corp | Lubricator |
US1905155A (en) * | 1929-11-25 | 1933-04-25 | William F Coors | Track oiler |
US1923449A (en) * | 1928-12-29 | 1933-08-22 | Railway Maintenance Corp | Lubricator |
US1936481A (en) * | 1930-12-12 | 1933-11-21 | Charles A Miller | Rail and flange lubricator |
US1940527A (en) * | 1930-06-10 | 1933-12-19 | American Valve And Meter Compa | Means for lubricating car wheels and rails |
US2059235A (en) * | 1933-07-20 | 1936-11-03 | Ramapo Ajax Corp | Rail lubricator |
US2152696A (en) * | 1937-02-02 | 1939-04-04 | William F Huck | Railway track lubricating device |
US2168554A (en) * | 1936-06-15 | 1939-08-08 | Poor & Co | Supporting clamp for track lubricators |
US2170917A (en) * | 1935-07-11 | 1939-08-29 | Ardco Mfg Co | Rail lubricating device |
US2185810A (en) * | 1936-05-29 | 1940-01-02 | American Brake Shoe & Foundry | Rail lubricator |
US2223714A (en) * | 1938-02-21 | 1940-12-03 | Poor & Co | Pump actuating mechanism for rail lubricators |
US2272774A (en) * | 1939-01-27 | 1942-02-10 | John T Mcgarry | Rail lubricator |
US2489182A (en) * | 1946-08-29 | 1949-11-22 | William F Huck | Railway track lubricating device |
US2718280A (en) * | 1952-04-02 | 1955-09-20 | Mills James Ltd | Rail and wheel flange lubricator |
US3059724A (en) * | 1959-07-01 | 1962-10-23 | Gen Railway Signal Co | Means for lubricating curved railroad track rails |
US3147822A (en) * | 1961-09-20 | 1964-09-08 | P & M Co England Ltd | Rail and flange lubricating apparatus |
US4088078A (en) * | 1976-06-04 | 1978-05-09 | Westinghouse Air Brake Company | Lubricating apparatus for reducing squeal noise of a railroad car wheel when passing through a car retarder |
US4186821A (en) * | 1978-05-15 | 1980-02-05 | McNeill Corporation | Lubricating apparatus |
US4214647A (en) * | 1978-02-24 | 1980-07-29 | Lutts William M | Automatic rail greasing apparatus |
US4556127A (en) * | 1983-10-17 | 1985-12-03 | Trak-Tech, Inc. | Railway track lubricator |
US4811818A (en) * | 1987-08-19 | 1989-03-14 | Durafilm Corporation | Transit rail lubricant applicator |
US5054582A (en) * | 1988-08-10 | 1991-10-08 | Claude Aracil | Stick coating applicator holder |
US5076396A (en) * | 1990-08-10 | 1991-12-31 | Foote John P | Hydraulic rail lubricator |
US5348120A (en) * | 1991-04-18 | 1994-09-20 | Portec Inc. | Rail lubrication apparatus |
US5394958A (en) * | 1992-12-22 | 1995-03-07 | Portec Inc. | Rail lubrication apparatus |
US5497852A (en) * | 1995-04-12 | 1996-03-12 | Mcneil Corporation | Automatic lubrication system |
US5518085A (en) * | 1995-02-21 | 1996-05-21 | Portec - Rmp Division | Assembly for applying solid material to wheels |
US5641037A (en) * | 1995-06-06 | 1997-06-24 | Portec, Inc., R M P Division | Rail lubrication apparatus |
US5687814A (en) * | 1995-07-07 | 1997-11-18 | Portec Inc., Rmp Division | Assembly for applying one or more materials to a rail |
US20040050623A1 (en) * | 2002-05-08 | 2004-03-18 | Urmson W. Thomas | Skirt for top of rail applicator |
US6719095B2 (en) * | 2000-09-22 | 2004-04-13 | Lincoln Industrial Corporation | Railroad track lubrication and monitoring thereof |
US6742624B2 (en) * | 2002-01-29 | 2004-06-01 | Lincoln Industrial Corporation | Railroad rail lubricating apparatus |
US6971479B1 (en) * | 1999-04-08 | 2005-12-06 | Portec Rail Products, Inc. | Top of rail applicator |
-
2007
- 2007-06-27 US US11/769,057 patent/US20090000869A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (35)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1883148A (en) * | 1928-10-11 | 1932-10-18 | Maintenance Equipment Company | Wheel flange oiler |
US1923449A (en) * | 1928-12-29 | 1933-08-22 | Railway Maintenance Corp | Lubricator |
US1899767A (en) * | 1929-04-26 | 1933-02-28 | Railway Maintenance Corp | Lubricator |
US1905155A (en) * | 1929-11-25 | 1933-04-25 | William F Coors | Track oiler |
US1940527A (en) * | 1930-06-10 | 1933-12-19 | American Valve And Meter Compa | Means for lubricating car wheels and rails |
US1880672A (en) * | 1930-06-14 | 1932-10-04 | Maintenance Equipment Company | Wheel flange oiler |
US1936481A (en) * | 1930-12-12 | 1933-11-21 | Charles A Miller | Rail and flange lubricator |
US2059235A (en) * | 1933-07-20 | 1936-11-03 | Ramapo Ajax Corp | Rail lubricator |
US2170917A (en) * | 1935-07-11 | 1939-08-29 | Ardco Mfg Co | Rail lubricating device |
US2185810A (en) * | 1936-05-29 | 1940-01-02 | American Brake Shoe & Foundry | Rail lubricator |
US2168554A (en) * | 1936-06-15 | 1939-08-08 | Poor & Co | Supporting clamp for track lubricators |
US2152696A (en) * | 1937-02-02 | 1939-04-04 | William F Huck | Railway track lubricating device |
US2223714A (en) * | 1938-02-21 | 1940-12-03 | Poor & Co | Pump actuating mechanism for rail lubricators |
US2272774A (en) * | 1939-01-27 | 1942-02-10 | John T Mcgarry | Rail lubricator |
US2489182A (en) * | 1946-08-29 | 1949-11-22 | William F Huck | Railway track lubricating device |
US2718280A (en) * | 1952-04-02 | 1955-09-20 | Mills James Ltd | Rail and wheel flange lubricator |
US3059724A (en) * | 1959-07-01 | 1962-10-23 | Gen Railway Signal Co | Means for lubricating curved railroad track rails |
US3147822A (en) * | 1961-09-20 | 1964-09-08 | P & M Co England Ltd | Rail and flange lubricating apparatus |
US4088078A (en) * | 1976-06-04 | 1978-05-09 | Westinghouse Air Brake Company | Lubricating apparatus for reducing squeal noise of a railroad car wheel when passing through a car retarder |
US4214647A (en) * | 1978-02-24 | 1980-07-29 | Lutts William M | Automatic rail greasing apparatus |
US4186821A (en) * | 1978-05-15 | 1980-02-05 | McNeill Corporation | Lubricating apparatus |
US4556127A (en) * | 1983-10-17 | 1985-12-03 | Trak-Tech, Inc. | Railway track lubricator |
US4811818A (en) * | 1987-08-19 | 1989-03-14 | Durafilm Corporation | Transit rail lubricant applicator |
US5054582A (en) * | 1988-08-10 | 1991-10-08 | Claude Aracil | Stick coating applicator holder |
US5076396A (en) * | 1990-08-10 | 1991-12-31 | Foote John P | Hydraulic rail lubricator |
US5348120A (en) * | 1991-04-18 | 1994-09-20 | Portec Inc. | Rail lubrication apparatus |
US5394958A (en) * | 1992-12-22 | 1995-03-07 | Portec Inc. | Rail lubrication apparatus |
US5518085A (en) * | 1995-02-21 | 1996-05-21 | Portec - Rmp Division | Assembly for applying solid material to wheels |
US5497852A (en) * | 1995-04-12 | 1996-03-12 | Mcneil Corporation | Automatic lubrication system |
US5641037A (en) * | 1995-06-06 | 1997-06-24 | Portec, Inc., R M P Division | Rail lubrication apparatus |
US5687814A (en) * | 1995-07-07 | 1997-11-18 | Portec Inc., Rmp Division | Assembly for applying one or more materials to a rail |
US6971479B1 (en) * | 1999-04-08 | 2005-12-06 | Portec Rail Products, Inc. | Top of rail applicator |
US6719095B2 (en) * | 2000-09-22 | 2004-04-13 | Lincoln Industrial Corporation | Railroad track lubrication and monitoring thereof |
US6742624B2 (en) * | 2002-01-29 | 2004-06-01 | Lincoln Industrial Corporation | Railroad rail lubricating apparatus |
US20040050623A1 (en) * | 2002-05-08 | 2004-03-18 | Urmson W. Thomas | Skirt for top of rail applicator |
Cited By (27)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US9022173B2 (en) | 2007-02-21 | 2015-05-05 | L.B. Foster Rail Technologies, Inc. | Grease guide |
US8783416B2 (en) | 2008-09-19 | 2014-07-22 | L.B. Foster Rail Technologies, Inc. | Wiping bar quick clamp |
US8955645B2 (en) * | 2009-05-29 | 2015-02-17 | L.B. Foster Rail Technologies, Inc. | Top of rail foam bar |
US11273853B2 (en) | 2009-05-29 | 2022-03-15 | L B Foster Rail Technologies, Inc | Top of rail resilient bar |
US20140060972A1 (en) * | 2009-05-29 | 2014-03-06 | Glen Appleby | Top of rail resilient bar |
US9440665B2 (en) * | 2009-05-29 | 2016-09-13 | L.B. Foster Rail Technologies, Inc. | Top of rail foam bar |
US20100300810A1 (en) * | 2009-05-29 | 2010-12-02 | Singleton Steven D | Top of Rail Foam Bar |
US9914465B2 (en) * | 2009-05-29 | 2018-03-13 | L.B. Foster Rail Technologies, Inc. | Top of rail resilient bar |
US20170174235A1 (en) * | 2009-05-29 | 2017-06-22 | L.B. Foster Rail Technologies, Inc. | Top of rail foam bar |
US10358153B2 (en) * | 2009-05-29 | 2019-07-23 | L.B. Foster Rail Technologies, Inc. | Top of rail foam bar |
US20150158509A1 (en) * | 2009-05-29 | 2015-06-11 | L.B. Foster Rail Technologies, Inc. | Top of rail foam bar |
US20140339021A1 (en) * | 2011-06-10 | 2014-11-20 | Markus Mandera | Lubrication device |
CN102897189A (en) * | 2011-07-25 | 2013-01-30 | 林肯有限公司 | Device for wetting or lubricating rail head |
EP2551171A3 (en) * | 2011-07-25 | 2013-07-03 | Lincoln GmbH | Device for dampening or lubricating a rail head |
US9016436B2 (en) | 2011-07-25 | 2015-04-28 | Lincoln Gmbh | Device for wetting or lubricating a rail head |
JP2013032140A (en) * | 2011-07-25 | 2013-02-14 | Lincoln Gmbh | Device for wetting or lubricating rail head |
US20140318897A1 (en) * | 2012-01-28 | 2014-10-30 | Bojan Pavcnik | Line distributor, preferably for anti-noise device for rail brakes |
US9409582B2 (en) * | 2012-01-28 | 2016-08-09 | Bojan Pav{hacek over (c)}nik | Line distributor, preferably for anti-noise device for rail brakes |
US9096242B2 (en) | 2012-08-23 | 2015-08-04 | L.B. Foster Rail Technologies, Inc. | Gauge face lubrication |
US10173700B2 (en) * | 2013-01-07 | 2019-01-08 | Whitmore Manufacturing, Llc | Top of rail applicator and method of using the same |
US10960907B2 (en) | 2013-01-07 | 2021-03-30 | Whitmore Manufacturing, Llc | Top of rail applicator |
CN107743464A (en) * | 2014-12-12 | 2018-02-27 | 惠特莫尔制造公司 | Rail top coat applicator and its application method |
WO2016094883A1 (en) * | 2014-12-12 | 2016-06-16 | The Whitmore Manufacturing Company | Top of rail applicator and method of using the same |
US10358152B2 (en) * | 2015-08-28 | 2019-07-23 | Loram Maintenance Of Way, Inc. | Method and apparatus for gauge-face lubrication |
US10994757B2 (en) * | 2015-08-28 | 2021-05-04 | Loram Maintenance Of Way, Inc. | Method and apparatus for gauge-face lubrication |
EP3659895A1 (en) * | 2018-11-29 | 2020-06-03 | Whitmore Manufacturing, LLC. | An improved top of rail applicator |
US20230382441A1 (en) * | 2022-05-25 | 2023-11-30 | Rbl, Inc. | Automatic switch plate lubrication assembly |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20090000869A1 (en) | Apparatus for Applying a Pumpable Material to a Rail Head | |
US8584804B2 (en) | Apparatus for applying a pumpable material to a rail head | |
US5641037A (en) | Rail lubrication apparatus | |
EP2435284B1 (en) | Top of rail foam bar | |
US5394958A (en) | Rail lubrication apparatus | |
CA1110183A (en) | Method and apparatus for lubricating a railway track | |
CA2881786C (en) | Gauge face lubrication | |
US10358153B2 (en) | Top of rail foam bar | |
EP1171337B1 (en) | Top of rail applicator | |
US5348120A (en) | Rail lubrication apparatus | |
US3147822A (en) | Rail and flange lubricating apparatus | |
US5176318A (en) | Guard rail assembly | |
EP1674369B1 (en) | Railway track lubrication system | |
AT504126A4 (en) | DEVICE FOR APPLYING LUBRICANTS TO THE TREAD OF RAILS FOR RAIL VEHICLES | |
JP5355051B2 (en) | Curve rail lubrication equipment | |
JP2002037068A (en) | Automatic oil applying device for rail | |
WO2010033907A2 (en) | Hinged clamp | |
CA2682168C (en) | Guide rail arrangement | |
JP3853630B2 (en) | Lubricating oil supply device at rail branch | |
US5238186A (en) | Guard rail assembly hook | |
EP0817740B1 (en) | Rail gauge face lubricating apparatus | |
US6631786B1 (en) | Process and device for the lubrication of a railroad track with Vignole-type rails | |
US5236125A (en) | Guard rail assembly support block | |
DE19915598B4 (en) | Device for height-adjustable attachment of a wheel sensor | |
US20080115723A1 (en) | Top-feed vehicle tire dressing applicator |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: LINCOLN INDUSTRIAL CORPORATION, MISSOURI Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:HOLLAND, CHRISTOPHER D.;REEL/FRAME:019486/0001 Effective date: 20070619 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |