As the fall season is in full effect in the Garden State, NJ Transit has taken precautions to ensure that all tracks are kept safe. The transportation system has begun the use of two AquaTrack machines to clean and remove any leaves from the rails.
The AquaTrack equipment is a high-pressure power washing system that removes any oily residue that may create “slippery rail” conditions. Fallen leaves can cause a condition known as “slippery rail”, which leads to poor traction on the rails from the oily residue left behind on rails, that can in turn cause delays.
The AquaTrack system has been in use by NJ Transit since 2003, helping clean tracks for decades. It dispenses gallons of water at a fast enough pace to remove the oily residue.
The original AquaTrack equipment didn’t provide as much coverage for all of the rails on NJ Transit, which led to an expansion in 2016. That year, NJ Transit unveiled its second AquaTrack system, which allowed for it to provide more coverage.
Currently, NJ Transit uses both of the AquaTrack machines to allow for maximum coverage throughout the fall season. NJ Transit trains are also equipped to spray sand in front of their wheels to increase traction, providing a smooth and safe experience for all guests.