TERMINAL EFFICIENCY: TECHNOLOGY AND TECHNIQUE

In the past few years major railroads have invested hundreds of millions of dollars to make full use of existing technology in developing the best possible car handling techniques. In many cases management philosophies differ as to the methodology of handling freight cars. The new West Colton Yard is a clear reflection of Southern Pacific's decision to develop a controlled terminal environment. This concept structured around a Terminal Control Computer (TCC) coordinates four basic elements: Advanced train concepts and diversions, Complete physical description of trackage, Up-to-the minute area rolling stock inventory, Decision making logic and rules for basic operating procedures. The West Colton management team is designed to provide a talent pool to be expanded to other terminals and assist in providing a unified approach to better terminal operations. Burlington Northern's new Northern Yard, still under construction, will have the primary function of classifying cars for local industries and interchange within the Twin Cities area. The BN is now figuring that when the yard is completed the average car will move through the terminal 18 hours faster. Many investments are being made to keep operating techniques in pace with technology.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/oclc/1586268
• Corporate Authors:

  Simmons-Boardman Publishing Corporation

  P.O. Box 350
  Bristol, CT  United States  06010
• Authors:
  • Welty, G
• Publication Date: 1973-8-27

Media Info

• Features: Photos;
• Pagination: p. 22-27
• Serial:
  • Railway Age
  • Volume: 174
  • Issue Number: 16
  • Publisher: Simmons-Boardman Publishing Corporation
  • ISSN: 0033-8826
  • Serial URL: http://www.railwayage.com

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Classification yards; Freight cars; Hump yards; Information processing; Intermodal terminals; Management; Planning
• Old TRIS Terms: Management planning; Terminal facilities
• Subject Areas: Administration and Management; Freight Transportation; Planning and Forecasting; Railroads; Terminals and Facilities;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00050405
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Jan 24 1975 12:00AM