NEW YORK, May 20, 2011 – Two standards outlining the structural safety requirements for both heavy and light rail vehicles are now available from ASME, the leading developer of international mechanical engineering standards, certification, and professional training and development programs.
The first editions of RT-1-2009 Safety Standard for Structural Requirements for Light Rail Vehicles and RT-2-2008 Safety Standard for Structural Requirements for Heavy Rail Vehicles, aim to increase passenger safety in the event of train collisions, while also limiting and controlling damage to the railcar bodies. Reflecting the best practices in rail vehicle design, testing and manufacture, the standards provide state-of-the-art guidelines for manufacturers, transit system operators, and governing entities.
RT-1 and RT-2 define the requirements for incorporating passive safety design concepts that enhance occupant safety in collision scenarios. Utilizing industry-accepted Crash Energy Management (CEM) protocols, the standards assign certain sections of the vehicle to absorb a portion of the energy at impact, allowing the structure to collapse in a controlled manner. According to ASME, the proper application of CEM minimizes the consequences of occupant impacts with the interior of the railcar.
The Society’s primary objective for RT-1 and RT-2 is to provide a pair of uniform standards for adoption at all levels of jurisdiction – in North America as well as in countries considering safety standards for railcars. To learn more, visit www.asme.org/kb/standards#des=RT.
About ASME
ASME helps the global engineering community develop solutions to real world
challenges. Founded in 1880 as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers,
ASME is a not-for-profit professional organization that enables collaboration,
knowledge sharing and skill development across all engineering disciplines,
while promoting the vital role of the engineer in society. ASME codes and standards,
publications, conferences, continuing education and professional development
programs provide a foundation for advancing technical knowledge and a safer
world.