Knorr-Bremse Rail Systems (UK) will be showcasing its latest Sand Flow Detection technology at the Rolling Stock Networking (RSN) 2025 event on 3rd July at the Derby Arena.
Knorr-Bremse's Sand Flow Detection sensors are already extensively used across Europe, with over 5,500 units integrated into sander systems supplied by Knorr-Bremse for over 10 years. The new UK variant of this technology has been redesigned to meet the specific needs of British passenger trains, offering a self-contained whole system solution that can be retrofitted to any brand and any type of sander equipment.
Mick Milhinch, Business Development Manager for Knorr-Bremse’s UK adhesion management products and services, who has 25 years of experience working with sanders and led the development of the new system, said: "The new Sand Flow Detection system is a game-changer for the UK rail industry. By offering a self-contained retrofittable solution, we’ve ensured that operators can enhance their existing sander equipment without needing a complete overhaul or upgrade.”
Sanding systems play a vital role in rail safety and efficiency. Increasing wheel-to-rail adhesion by conditioning the rail, sanding systems are vital for maintaining braking performance, particularly under low-adhesion conditions. The Sand Flow Detection system builds on this essential functionality, allowing operators to proactively address potential defects before they impact train operations.
Designed to ensure optimal performance of rail vehicle adhesion management systems, the technology leverages a service-proven component from the Knorr-Bremse catalogue to monitor sand flow in real time. A sensor fitted to the sand hose alerts the driver when sand flow does not meet demand, providing confidence that adhesion management systems are functioning effectively when needed most.
For further information please contact
Mick Milhinch Business Development Manager – Adhesion Management
Melksham
SN12 6TL
United Kingdom
Mick.Milhinch@knorr-bremse.com
Key benefits of the Knorr-Bremse Sand Flow Detection system include:
- Driver alerts: In-cab alerts notify drivers of insufficient sand flow, enabling quick action.
- Real-time monitoring: Provides Remote Condition Monitoring: enabling drivers, maintainers and wayside staff to address issues promptly and reduce the risk of operational disruptions.
- Maintenance-free operation: Requires no maintenance after initial calibration, reducing lifecycle costs.
- Retrofit capability: Can be integrated into any existing sander equipment, making it a flexible solution for passenger train operators in the UK.
- Health and safety benefits: Eliminates the need for depot-based testing, reducing exposure to silica sand during maintenance procedures.
- Operational cost savings: Allows daily system checks as opposed to annual depot tests, potentially reducing maintenance costs.
- Sanding maintenance becomes condition-based: Allows removal of all planned sander running and overhaul maintenance and instead switch to predictive condition-based maintenance which enables Life Cycle Cost reduction.
- Improved operational performance: Allows drivers to gain confidence in the function of the sanding system and rely on its performance in low adhesion conditions, reducing train delays.
Common defects such as blocked hoses, electrical faults, and defective sand valves can severely impact braking performance during leaf fall season. By integrating Sand Flow Detection technology, train operators can ensure their sanding systems are always ready to perform, reducing braking distances by up to 50% under low-adhesion conditions when combined with state-of-the-art traction and braking systems.
This innovation reflects Knorr-Bremse’s deep commitment to delivering cutting-edge, practical solutions that improve safety, efficiency, and operational reliability. We’re excited to showcase this technology at RSN 2025 and demonstrate how it can help operators stay ahead of potential challenges.
Mick Milhinch – Business Development Manager
Knorr-Bremse Rail Systems UK invites attendees to visit their stand L8 at RSN 2025 to learn more about this innovative technology and how it can revolutionise adhesion management for the UK rail industry.