Switch Monitor Developed to Prevent Rail Accidents; Prototype to Enter Test Phase
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 15, 2006) -- General Electric will showcase breakthrough technology designed to help reduce train accidents. GE's Switch Guard™ will be on display May 24 -- 25 at the Railway Systems Suppliers, Inc. show in Louisville, Kentucky, at the Kentucky International Convention Center.
GE developed Switch Guard™ to monitor switch machines in dark territory, or areas where no signaling exists. Nearly half of all mainline track is in dark territory. GE is currently testing its newest technology with a U.S. Class I customer.
"There is significant demand for technology that can detect a misaligned switch," said Kevin Caponecchi, General Manager of GE -- Transportation's Signaling business. "Our customers are interested in finding innovative ways to improve safety on our country's rail network."
According to the Federal Railroad Administration, which is contributing to new testing for switch monitoring technology, the largest single factor of train accidents is human error. In 2005, there were nine accidents involving misaligned switches in dark territory resulting in 10 fatalities and over 600 injuries.
Dark territory switch safety also is receiving the attention of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta introduced the National Rail Safety Action Plan last year to improve safety by targeting the most frequent and highest-risk causes of train accidents, including improperly-lined switches.
Along with Switch Guard™, GE also will showcase its latest in train control and signaling technology at the annual rail signaling show.
About GE Infrastructure - Rail
GE Infrastructure - Rail, a unit of General Electric Company (NYSE: GE), delivers technology solutions for the rail, marine, mining and energy industries. Products and services include freight and passenger locomotives, diesel engines for marine and stationary power applications and motorized systems for mining trucks and drills.
Contact: Shaunda Parks, (816) 650-1639
GE Transportation
Chris Banocy