MINERALS TRANSPORT--TRENDS IN ENERGY EFFICIENCY

The paper deals primarily with railroad transport, with special emphasis on energy efficiency. With the resurgence of coal in the United States the railroads are being called upon to handle large tonnages over very long distances. Consumption of locomotive diesel fuel to handle these ton-miles becomes a very significant cost item. Some of the approaches being taken to use this fuel more efficiently are discussed. Among the points covered are locomotive design improvements, operating procedures, lighter weight cars and freight car trucks. Rail transport is an energy efficient means of overland transport, especially when used to haul bulk commodities over long distances in unit trains. Continuing advances in equipment and operating practices may further improve fuel efficiency on the order of another 10%-20%. To achieve still further improvements in fuel efficiency, conversion to alternative propulsion means would be necessary.