Rail supplier news from Wabtec and PS Logistics (Jan. 17)

Wabtec Corp.’s Trip Optimizer recently surpassed a milestone as railroads used the energy-management software to efficiently operate their trains for more than 1 billion auto miles, the equivalent of more than 40,000 trips around the planet. The 12,000 locomotives worldwide using the Trip Optimizer system accounted for significant reductions in fuel consumption and emissions for the rail industry, according to a Wabtec press release. Trip Optimizer is a smart cruise-control system for trains that considers terrain, train makeup, speed restrictions and operating conditions to calculate an optimum speed profile. The software automatically controls locomotive throttle and dynamic brakes to reduce fuel burn and provide efficient train handling.

PS Logistics subsidiary Blair Logistics has acquired the flatbed division of ELS. The division maintains a fleet of more than 90 tractors and more than 240 over-length flatbed trailers. It primarily hauls steel, industrial materials, lumber and other building materials. ELS will retain its heavy-haul and intermodal operating divisions and operate under the same name, and the flatbed division will now operate as Blair, according to a PS Logistics press release. Financial terms were not disclosed.