Safety Enhanced by New Track Geometry Cars of MTA-New York City Transit, USA

Since MTA-New York City Transit (MTA-NYCT) obtained both TGC3 and TGC4 track inspection cars, which are latest generation track geometry cars, in 2006 and 2007, respectively, New York City's rapid transit system has experienced enhanced safety. Derailments and fires are only two of the types of incidents the TGC3 and TGC4 cars have helped MTA-NYCT avoid, which in turn have ensured MTA-NYCT mainline track safety. The equipment has also greatly reduced the number of broken rails through accurate state-of-the-art ultrasonic rail flaw detection system. MTA-NYCT maintenance of way personnel are able to inspect mainline tracks more often for rail defects, and with greater precision and accuracy previously possible, through TGC3 and TGC4 car use. Using the equipment, continuous inspections of track under loads ensure both the quality and safety of mainline tracks. Safety and quality of the MTA-NYCT rapid transit system is ensured since there is accurate performance of continuous testing of track geometry under load.