Throughput

Throughput of a section is the quantum of traffic which can be transported over the section in a period of 24 hours.
Traffic can be Passenger or Goods.
Passenger throughput is measured in terms of number of passengers or passenger Kms carried over the section in 24 hours.
Goods throughput can be measured in terms of

(a) Number of wagons

(b) Gross Tonne-Kms

(c) Net Tonne-Kms carried over the section in 24 hours.

When we spoke of throughput in Railways it is generally the Goods throughput.
Net Tonne Kms is the important throughput calculation for all planning purposes. For day to day control working Number of wagons are calculated.
Throughput can be increased by (a) Increasing the number of trains (b)Increasing load per train

Increasing more number of trains generally needs huge capital investment and hence it is more economically feasible to run heavier trains, that is to increase load per train.

Steps for increasing load per train

Increasing Loop capacities - On IR 686 m has been specified as the standard loop CSR(clear Standing room) on BG. Any increase in this will necessitate large scale remodeling of stations and yards involving huge capital investment.
wagon improvements - High capacity wagons with Roller bearing.
Braking –Vaccum to Air brake.
Improved signaling – Provision of double distant.
Track improvements – Axle load restricted to 20.3 Tonnes . Nominated sections have axle load 22.9 Tonnes. Now IR is planning for 25 t axle load for high density routes.
Easing of gradients
Strengthening of Permanent Way and Bridges.
Liberalizing Standard Moving Dimensions
Motive Power requirements - Diesel and Electric traction

Heavy haul trains

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