The Wrong Type of Leaves - RSR
Summary
Host Dan Fox explores the "wrong kind of leaves" problem, explaining how crushed organic matter bonds to rails to severely reduce wheel-rail adhesion. The episode details the resulting risks, including wheel slide, wheel flats, and track circuit failures, while discussing mitigation strategies like high-pressure railhead treatment trains and traction gel applicators. It also covers recent RAIB investigations into near-misses and collisions at user-worked level crossings.
Topics discussed
Disclaimer and sponsor advertisements
News: Stonehaven derailment and fire
Introduction: The 'wrong kind of leaves' problem
RAIB updates: Hobart near miss and Lancashire collision
Origin of the phrase and public perception
Physics of wheel-rail adhesion and contact patches
How leaves contaminate and bond to the railhead
Factors influencing adhesion levels and visibility
Impact on braking: Wheel slide protection and overruns
Wheel flats, damage, and movement restrictions
Impact on acceleration and timetable delays
Interference with track circuits and train detection
Sponsor advertisement
Autumn planning and identifying high-risk sites
Vegetation management and biodiversity balance
Railhead treatment trains and Sandite application
Traction gel applicators and continuous treatment
Onboard sanding systems and automatic controls
Driver role, training, and adhesion forecasts
Autumn timetables and capacity management
Case studies: Station overruns and Salisbury collision
Conclusion: Layered defense strategy
Outro, feedback, and final advertisements
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