Greenbrier Rail Services is established as a leader in the parts industry, but many are unaware of the railcar impact testing operation. The system was developed by Greenbrier Rail Services’ Red Oak facility when engineers determined the need to test our own cushioning units. It took a year to perfect the process internally, and today, we have a fully-functioning railcar impact testing center open to the public.
The automated data collection system provides the ability to capture coupler and sill loading up to 18 MPH. The railcar provided by GRS is pulled up the switchable track, which allows for an easy transition to back up or impact railcar configuration. It is then released and impacts another railcar, which determines the condition of parts. Engineers install customer’s parts on provided test cars and run testing per AAR requirements. Alternatively, the tests may be customized based on customer’s needs. AAR inspectors are on site during test runs to provide reports and for filming purposes.