Friction Management

Friction Management Benefits

Benefits of a properly implemented FM program include:

• Extended rail and wheel life

• Improved fuel economy and associated reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions

• Reduced derailment potential (wheel climb)

• Avoidance of rolling contact fatigue (RCF)

• Reduction or mitigation of rail corrugation growth

• Reduced lateral forces

• Reduction of squeal and flanging noise

• Better ride quality or improved steering

Trackside or On-Board?

L.B. Foster has developed a comprehensive range of both trackside and on-board solutions for applying friction management materials. As the global FM experts, we can work with you to implement friction management anywhere it is required in a manner that provides the best return on investment. Our commitment to making a solution work for you is what makes L.B. Foster the market leader.

All our products and solutions are backed by an extensive library of scientific studies and peer-reviewed papers, and we leverage this knowledge to deliver friction management solutions with integrity and proven results.

Trackside Application Systems

L.B. Foster’s broad portfolio of state-of-the-art electric PROTECTOR® and Traction Gel Applicator (TGA)systems are the industry standard, with decades of proven in-field performance and reliability. All L.B. Foster trackside systems can be equipped with our Remote Performance Monitoring (RPM) platform, allowing railroad owners and system maintainers to remotely manage their assets and gain insight into their operation. This technology helps to maximize uptime and minimize the operating costs and track time associated with maintaining an FM program.

On-Board Application Systems

On-board application systems are installed on the rolling stock. L.B. Foster pioneered the Solid Wheel Flange Lubricant Stick application system that continues to set the benchmark for quality and performance today. We have also developed a KELTRACK On-Board® (KOB) liquid spray system for customers that want the benefits of broad top-of-rail FM coverage while eliminating the track access requirements of a trackside friction management program.

Safety and Sustainability

L.B. Foster is committed to improving sustainability performance, both internally and by helping our customers achieve their safe operations and carbon goals. Friction Management is a proven method of reducing noise pollution, derailment potential, locomotive fuel consumption, and can play a key role in reducing operational greenhouse gas emissions in track infrastructure.

Furthermore, L.B. Foster has a complete portfolio of contamination retention products and consumables with environmental attributes, including biodegradable greases, to meet our customer needs.

About L.B.Foster Rail Friction Management

We leverage our core values of integrity, innovation, and teamwork to bring complete solutions to rail operators around the world. L.B. Foster has been providing trackside and mobile friction management solutions since the late 1980's, and solutions to the railway industry since the company was founded in 1902. The Friction Management group has a global footprint, with offices in the United States, Canada, the UK, Germany, Brazil and China.

Formerly operating under Kelsan Technologies and Portec Rail Products, the unified Friction Management group under L.B. Foster remains committed to delivering innovative solutions that meet your unique requirements.

All our products and solutions are backed by an extensive library of scientific studies and peer-reviewed papers, and we leverage this knowledge to deliver friction management solutions with integrity and proven results.

We find the best outcomes are achieved in a collaborative environment that focuses on teamwork and respect. Our team of rail friction management specialists is ready to work with you to systematically assess, implement, and maintain your friction management program. We’re here to help you meet your goals.