Reliable wheel detection for wayside train monitoring systems

Wheel Sensor RSR310

The Wheel Sensor RSR310 is designed for basic integrity train detection, such as wheel detection or axle counting applications across all rail segments. Combined with the Wheel Sensor Signal Converter WSC004, it forms a reliable wheel detection system for triggering automated equipment and processes such as hot box detection systems, AEI readers, and vision monitoring systems. The solution offers flexible integration and enhanced operational efficiency while maintaining high availability even in harsh environments.

Benefits at a glance

Flexible Mounting Position

High compatibility to maintenance vehicles

Improved signal-to-noise ratio

Maximum mechanical robustness

Simplification of maintenance

Highly flexible system integration options

pattern-on-white

How it Works

Inductive Wheel Detection

The RSR310 uses enhanced inductive technology to detect railway wheels. The sensor generates a high-frequency electromagnetic field along the rail. When a wheel passes through this field, the ferromagnetic material causes a measurable change in inductance, triggering reliable detection of speed up to 450 km/h, weather conditions, or wheel surface contamination.

Signal Processing

The RSR310 provides and processes an enhanced analogue signal which allows for a bi-directional communication between the wheel sensor and the Wheel Sensor Signal Converter WSC004 to exchange diagnostic data, receive configuration parameters etc. The converter processes this signal and generates digital outputs via optocoupler interface:

  • Status of sensor systems

  • Wheel position

  • Travel direction

  • Center pulse

  • Gate pulse

  • Error output

These outputs integrate seamlessly with higher-ranking wayside train monitoring systems.

Applications

The RSR310 - WSC004 combination serves as a reliable triggering solution for various wayside train monitoring applications across all rail segments:

  • Hot box detection systems

  • Flat wheel detection systems

  • AEI card readers

  • Lubrication systems

  • Vision monitoring systems

  • Warning systems

Technical Design

RSR310 Wheel Sensor

The compact wheel sensor mounts directly on the rail using a convenient rail claw system—no drilling required. Its robust construction withstands extreme temperatures from -40 °C to +85 °C (tested to -55 °C) and meets IP68 protection standards. UV-resistant materials and humidity tolerance up to 100% ensure long-term reliability in harsh outdoor environments.

Electromagnetic compatibility per EN 50121-4 and AREMA 11.5.2 guarantees reliable operation in electrically noisy railway environments. The sensor supports cable runs up to 6.4 km (at 1.4 mm²) with maximum loop resistance ≤150 Ω, reducing infrastructure requirements for distributed installations.

WSC004 Signal Converter

The compact converter mounts on DIN rail in standard wayside cabinets. It operates on +10 V DC to +36 V DC power supply with 2000 V insulation voltage. Simple DIP-switch configuration and built-in calibration buttons enable quick commissioning without specialized tools.

Optocoupler outputs provide 3000 V galvanic isolation for reliable signal transmission to higher-ranking systems. RS232 and ASD interfaces support local and remote diagnostics. Via ASD it is possible to upload configuration data to the wheel sensor and receive diagnostic data through the enhance analogue interface.

The converter operates in the same temperature range as the sensor (-40 °C to +85 °C, tested to -55 °C), ensuring consistent system performance.

pattern-on-white

Standards Compliance

The RSR310 - WSC004 system operates at basic integrity level (non-vital), suitable for triggering wayside monitoring equipment with no safety requirements. Both components meet international railway standards:

  • Electromagnetic compatibility: EN 50121-4, AREMA 11.5.2

  • Mechanical stress: EN 50125-3, AREMA 11.5.1

  • Wheel detection: ERA/ERTMS/033281 and more

man is working on the PC with a headset on
Feel free to contact us anytime!

Do you require more information regarding our wheel sensors? Contact us - we're here for you!