Project: Analysis of the Economics of Increasing Car and Train
Capacity for Bulk Commodity Movements
Client: Burlington Northern Railroad
This study examined the economics of bulk commodity unit train operations and the effect of increasing axle load and/or train size on overall system economics.
A computerized train simulation model was used to evaluate train performance and estimate fuel consumption, track maintenance costs, crew costs, and the costs of equipment ownership and maintenance for conventional bulk commodity equipment, operating in unit train service over a 1,200 mile route. A range of axle loads and train weights were studied.
The primary focus of this study was the relationship between increased axle load and/or train size and the respective operating and maintenance costs for a fixed annual volume of commodity moved.
Detailed analysis was carried out to determine expected increases in track costs, equipment costs, bridge damage resulting from heavier axle loads, as well as increased derailment costs. The corresponding reductions in operating and capital costs were also determined for this specific route and movement.
A set of curves relating overall costs (to include maintenance and operating costs) as a function of axle load were generated. A complementary set of curves relating cost and train size were also generated. From these curves, the optimum axle load/train size combination, based on the lowest overall system costs, were determined.
Studies were performed for both coal and grain movements in unit train service.