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12/5/2016

Wabtec Corp. Perspective: A PTC development and implementation leader

By Jeff Stearns, vice president and group sales executive-train control systems

Wabtec Corp. has been a leader in the development and implementation of PTC solutions in North America going back to its predecessor days as part of Rockwell International’s CBTM project with CSX and ARES program with the Burlington Northern Railroad. This expertise and the ongoing evolution of the product ultimately led to Wabtec’s I-ETMS® PTC system becoming the standard in North America with over 22,000 systems installed.

Wabtec continues to work with its partner railroads to define new system features and enhancements. This collaborative effort ensures that the I-ETMS solution continues to address much more than just the basic requirements of the Rail Safety Improvement Act of 2008.   Instead, I-ETMS serves as a valuable resource enabling railroads to achieve a return on their investment from benefits including capacity, energy management, train management optimization and business analytics. These enhancements affect commuter, transit and light-rail vehicle configurations which increase the overall safety levels worldwide.

In addition to being an industry leader in the deployment of PTC at a solution level, Wabtec provides a broad range of systems integration, systems engineering, wayside signal expertise and program management services that directly impact the total number of locomotives and track miles that will realize PTC deployment within the prescribed timeframes. Wabtec has provided direct systems integration expertise to several commuter and short-line customers in support of their PTC deployment efforts.

Wabtec has been proactive in reaching out to customers, coordinating PTC 101 meetings and conducting information sessions to ensure that customers understand all that is required to implement a certifiable PTC system. This includes a comprehensive review of relevant costs, scheduling milestones, and the overall scope of the project. In addition, Wabtec has developed customized turnkey packages that address unique segment needs, such as large freight, heavy-haul, commuter, transit and short-line railroads.