PTC is a computerized system utilizing a GPS tracking system that can automatically stop a train in certain safety situations. Without funding to purchase, install and train crews for PTC use on No. 261, the group is concerned it may not be able to continue operating mainline excursions over Class I railroads.
The Friends estimates it will cost between $100,000 and $150,000 to equip the historic locomotive for PTC. Amtrak has also increased the amount it charges the Friends to operate excursions. This decreases the amount of revenue the group can earn from trips, which causes PTC installation to be an even larger financial burden. A portion of the cost of each ticket along with additional donations can make the installation and operation of PTC with No. 261 possible, the organization tells Trains News Wire.
The steam excursion will depart Minneapolis at 9 a.m. June 9 traveling via BNSF’s Railway’s Hinckley Subdivision at speeds up to 60 mph. The train will arrive that afternoon at the Lake Superior Railroad Museum in Duluth. After an overnight stop the excursion train will return depart Duluth at noon for the trip back to Minneapolis on June 10.
“By contributing to the installation and operation of PTC on No. 261, you will also give the Friends the ability to develop the necessary systems to help other mainline steam operators such as Nickel Plate Road No. 765, Norfolk & Western No. 611, and Southern Pacific No. 4449 continue to operate,” Erik Hoofnagle of the Friends of the 261 says.
Premium, First Class, and Coach tickets will be offered on the fundraising excursion. To purchase tickets and contribute to the 261 PTC Installation Fund, go to www.261.com.
Mr. Livesey – I’m no expert at all this, but what you are describing (AWS and TWPS) sounds like a penalty brake application (don’t know if you mean train brakes or loco brakes) while the loco is still pulling. I suppose the UK has more faith in their drivers realizing what is happening that those in the US do, causing then to shut off the throttle. Correct me if I’m getting this wrong.
PTC is compatible with steam locomotives. Many live steam miniature locomotives are radio controlled. In this regard, PTC can be applied to full scale steam locomotives.
Don’t mean to diminish the importance of all this, but I suspect the British mainline steam operators and patrons are kinda chuckling at these machinations.
Responding to Mr Pins: All steam locomotives running on Network Rail track are fitted with two automatic warning systems – AWS (Automatic Warning System) an older system which alerts the driver of a yellow signal. If the driver does not respond the system will apply the brake. The newer system is TWPS (Train Protection and Warning System) which applies the brake if the train passes a red light. ECTS (European Control Traffic System – I think that’s right!) is also being developed. This will include both of the above systems and potentially displays information about traffic on the line ahead of currently sighted fixed signals.
Besides the already mentioned logistics, mechanical and otherwise of PTC on steam, what does Amtrak charge them for? A backup engine? (which if PTC equipped would not require steam to be.) Amtrak coaches on the train? I’m not aware of this engine going on Amtrak owned tracks. Most steam engines now are not allowed to go faster than they can stop within sight distance.
As much as I hate to see modern diesel power with a steam locomotive, if PTC is required, wouldn’t it just be easier to stick a diesel behind the steam unit?
I am very curious as to how PTC equipment would function on a steam locomotive. It seems to me to stop a steam locomotive, i.e. shut the throttle and apply the brakes, would take some interesting mechanical appliances to be added. This would far more complicated than installing a PTC module on modern diesels which are basically computer controlled.
PTC does not belong on steam engines. I understand the need for safety but this is too much….