Union Pacific has unveiled Arrowedge, an aerodynamic technology for fuel and locomotive emissions reductions for double-stack intermodal freight trains.
According to Union Pacific, the Arrowedge production version, which has been in development for several years, is part of its aim to design, build and implement fuel-saving technologies.
The 48ft Arrowedge is designed to be deployed on top of the first freight container of a double-stack intermodal train and has a tapered body ,which enables free air movement around the train’s top frontmost containers.
The technology reduces aerodynamic drag, decreasing the amount of locomotive power required to propel the train.
Union Pacific car and locomotive engineering general director Mike Iden said that the project represents the company’s focus on pioneering technology for operational and environmentally sustainable gains that result in enhanced customer service and community stewardship.
"We are excited to see the results of this innovation in action and how it can springboard further research and development," Iden said.
Union Pacific holds two US patents for the Arrowedge, with more US and Canadian patents pending.
The company expects to install the technology on double-stack train services between Joliet, Illinois and Long Beach, California, by the end of September 2013.
Between 2007 and 2012, Union Pacific has invested $18bn in its network and operations, including $3.7bn in 2012.
Image: Union Pacific’s Arrowedge uses aerodynamic technology for fuel and locomotive emissions reduction on double-stack intermodal freight trains. Photo: courtesy of PRNewsFoto/Union Pacific.
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