Much like the coats, hats, and mittens we pull out of storage and don throughout the winter months, BNSF Railway locomotives undergo specialized preparations and maintenance to ensure safe, efficient operations in colder temperatures.
Many winterization activities focus on preventing airbrake-related issues caused by any freezing moisture present in compressed train line air. BNSF has invested in modifications such as air dryers, heated blowdowns, and horn mag-valve jackets over the past six years. Heat tape, a new technology, is being tested on locomotives to prevent freezing of moisture in the air. Additionally, headlights are equipped with heaters, and insulation jackets cover horn mechanisms to combat snow and ice.
These measures, along with regular maintenance checks, have contributed to an 8% reduction in locomotive-related service interruptions in the North Region.
Learn more here.
