What Is Engine Utilization ?
►►► Engines being costly resources their utilization has to be carefully monitored. Some of the measures for improving Engine Utilizations are as under:
Running of the Goods Trains on the proper path, For this, the Master Charts have to be properly framed and consolidated.Proper co-ordination between Control and Line Staff.Reduction in the Terminal detention of Locos by proper monitoring co-ordination and working with Yard Staff, C&W Staff etc.
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judicious ordering of Trains and Right time start of Goods Trains.Proper controlling, judicious crossings and preferences.Loop Lines on critical block sections should not be generally blocked.Stabling and picking up of load should be judicious and properly planned.Loco pilot should run at maximum permissible speed subject to restrictions.
Light Engines can be coupled or attached to trains in order to save path and energy.Light Engines (Single or Couple) should run at maximum permissible speed, for which they are fit, subject to speed restrictionsSignals must be taken off promptly at Stations. Distant/Warner Signals must always be taken off promptly.
Tangible authority to proceed should be handed over at the appointed place instead of getting the train slowed down in front of the Station for handing over the Authority from the
Platform.Trains should be run through Main Line (as far as possible) since looping results in extra time on the run.
Locomotives should be in good working order and staff should be well versed in Loco operations and troubleshooting.Hauling capacity of the Locomotives should be properly utilized.Engineering speed restrictions should be regularly reviewed and reduced by maximizing the output of the Engineering staff and machines. Due care and foresight in offering blocks for track maintenance should be exercised.
Regular foot plating by officers and staff involved in operations motivates train crew and alerts the line staff.Effective control over traffic yards to reduce other engine hours, detention to locos at important loading/unloading points and industrial sidings.
The factors adversely affecting the Locomotive utilization, the speed of goods train, terminal detention etc. should be got analyzed by suitable multi-departmental teams and remedial
measures were taken.Incentive schemes for the motivation of staff connected with Goods Operation, so as to improve Engine utilization Special watch on Loco pilots losing time on the run and not running at maximum permissible speed.