High Speed Overload and Imbalance Load System in China

An Overload and Imbalance Load Detection (OID) system monitors rolling stock on the railroad tracks, and identifies and alarms on improperly loaded vehicles. In China, OID systems have been installed near train stations close to the railroad signals and curves. The location and condition of the track in the area of the OID system can affect the weighing performance. In recent years, the dedicated high-speed passenger lines have freed up a great deal of train capacity on the freight tracks, enabling freight train speed to increase from 60km/h to 80∼120km/h. It has become necessary to install OID systems on freight mainline between stations.

The authors of this paper discuss the prospect and hurdles of two OID technologies on China railways.