Established in 2005, TMV Control Systems was formed from a vision to design and manufacture the next generation of locomotive control systems. Basing the platform on 22 years of experience in designing locomotive control systems, Derick Vander Klippe’s pursuit was to offer the rail industry an advanced, robust control system with long-term performance.
The result was the Traction Engine Control Unit (TECU), an intuitive system which is easy to navigate and operate to get the most out of a vehicle. Installed inside the high voltage electrical cabinet, the TECU I/O modules receive input from contactors, relays, current sensors, a fuel-level monitor, pressure sensors, oil sensors, and Senix ToughSonic CHEM ultrasonic level sensors. The TECU also receives information such as throttle direction, notch, brake, and data about many other locomotive operations. This data is also viewable on a display screen located nearby.
TMV uses the Senix Ultrasonic CHEM 10 level sensor to detect fuel level in diesel-electric locomotive fuel tanks. TMV Control has the expertise to calculate fuel level based on the dimensions of the fuel tank, but something which could accurately measure the level or height of fuel is needed.
The company explored options such as using flow rate to measure fuel level, but experienced difficulties. Tough conditions such as vibration, alternating weather and temperature conditions, and inclines are common in rail transportation. TMV Controls selected the ToughSonic CHEM 10 due to its accuracy, ruggedness, and dependability. The Senix ultrasonic sensor can endure all these challenges and still give accurate readings. The CHEM 10 is made of PVDV, the transducer is protected by a layer of PVDF, the PUR jacketed cable and electronics are potted and protected, and all ToughSonic sensors have an IP68 rating.
Flow rates are notoriously inaccurate because although fuel is pumped out of the tank, a return line pumps some fuel back into the tank. The incoming and outgoing fuels tend to be at different temperatures so flow rate sensors can measure more fuel going back in the tank. Even small errors keep adding up. Calculating the dimensions of the tank with the readings from the Senix ToughSonic CHEM 10 ultrasonic sensor is much more accurate. The fuel level is measured, recorded, and displayed using the Senix sensor, which also measures kWh. Using these measurements, railway network operators can determine the efficiency of locomotives and their engines.
Contact Instrotech, Phone 010 595-1831, sales@instrotech.co.za
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