Research of unit train loading technologies at the sidings of grain elevators with their shunting locomotives

The purpose of the study is to increase the unit train load efficiency at the elevators having their shunting locomotives. The research is based on the analysis of time series, methods of organizing the operational work of railways, and methods of traction calculations. The paper considers the problem of organizing shunting work at elevators when loading grain unit trains. Critical wear and tear of shunting locomotives in railway transport of general use necessitates using their locomotives at the elevators. As a result of the research, the dependence of the duration of shunting and cargo operations on the number of cars in the unit train and on other factors was established. Various types of shunting locomotives were compared. Based on the analysis, it was established that it is advisable to use four-axle shunting diesel locomotives with hydraulic transmission for shunting work at the elevators. The traction force of such locomotives is sufficient to deliver empty cars to the elevator at a speed of 14–15 km/h. Loaded cars can be removed at a speed of 14–15 km/h with a slope of the connecting track up to 2–5 ‰. With greater slopes, the removal of loaded cars should be performed at a speed of 5 km/h. The main factor affecting the duration of shunting operations is the distance of delivery and removal of cars. Technologies for loading the grain unit trains at the elevators, providing for the presence of cars at the loading stations for two and three days, have also been developed. The main factor affecting the duration of unit train loading is the staff of locomotive assembly teams. The originality of the study is in obtaining the dependence between the parameters of the technical support of the elevators and the duration of the presence of cars in the connecting station – elevator's siding system. The practical value of the paper is that its results can be used in the design of the reconstruction of existing and construction of new elevators, as well as in the estimation of costs associated with various loading technologies of the unit trains for the corresponding sidings.