Brazilian freight concessionaire Rumo Logística has introduced an enhanced broken rail detection system, integrating artificial intelligence (AI) to improve the accuracy of detection and reduce the number of false alarms. Rumo began its broken rail detection project in 2018, installing devices at various locations across its 1,676 mm gauge freight network to monitor track condition. These transmitted information about potential anomalies to a network monitoring centre which then passed the relevant data to train drivers in real time, helping to reduce the risk of derailments. The introduction of the AI functionality on a test basis started in August 2022. Following completion of the initial test programme, Rumo began a process of updating 60% of its broken rail detectors across the network with AI functionality. The company has now moved into a phase of assisted operation.
