Beating the Chill

Frost, ice, and snow are perennial problems many rail operators in the northern hemisphere face. Significant challenges often occur when deicing chemicals are applied too sparingly or not soon enough, often due to the vulnerability of deicing guidelines to many variables. Deicing and anti-icing applications for facilities and equipment, including pneumatic systems like the third-rail conductor and air brakes; train brakes; and platforms are discussed by the author.