Progressive Railroading July 2019 Editorial Lineup All July Advertisers Receive Free Ad Study

Cover Story:

KCS Factors PSR into its 'Better Service Begets Growth' Mantra

Earlier this year, Kansas City Southern joined the five other Class Is that are adopting or employing precision scheduled railroading (PSR). The now-popular operating strategy focuses on prioritizing car delivery on fixed point-to-point schedules while minimizing in-transit handlings, and controlling costs by using fewer resources.

Late last year, the Class I wasn't meeting its performance expectations and additional freight that was available to move couldn't be tapped because of ongoing operational issues, particularly near the U.S.-Mexico border, KCS leaders admit.

The move to PSR is all about improving the consistency, reliability and resiliency of its network — beyond service design and toward greater execution and discipline — to sharpen the emphasis on operational performance and business growth, they say. For the past three months, each asset has been monitored, every train delay has been analyzed and addressed, and all aspects of operations have been scrutinized and adjusted on a daily basis.

Managing Editor Jeff Stagl delves into KCS' PSR embrace by talking heightened expectations and new opportunities with CEO Patrick Ottensmeyer, COO Jeff Songer and the recently appointed EVP of PSR Sameh Fahmy.

Communications & Signaling Special Section:

The 2019-'20 C&S Product Information Directory

From advanced train control and alarm systems to wire and cable accessories, Progressive Railroading's C&S Product Information Directory is a single-source reference for railroaders seeking communications and signaling technology information, this annual directory includes a comprehensive buyer's guide that features listings in more than 30 C&S product categories. Moving rail cars and locomotives through yards and across country quickly is critical to increasing rail efficiency and controlling operating costs, so railroads are always in search of new devices, software and data systems for signaling, communications and railway automation.

MOW:

Rail Grinding

Rail grinding is an integral tool in a railroad's maintenance-of-way toolbox. It can help minimize potential for derailments and extend rail life. As railroads aim to get the most bang for their rail grinding buck, they're seeking equipment and services to help cut costs and boost efficiencies. This month, suppliers of grinding and related equipment share information on their current offerings.

Mechanical:

Fuel Management

From onboard train-control systems that function like autopilot to enhanced employee training programs to engineer incentive programs, freight railroads are employing a variety of methods to reduce fuel usage and costs. We check in with several railroads to determine which ones are the most successful fuel management techniques of late, and highlight new processes and technologies they're employing.

Technology Update:

Blockchain

Blockchain is a digital ledger technology capable of recording transactions and storing data in immutable blocks across a distributed network. It enables a digital supply chain and creates a peer-to-peer system of commerce. The idea: to make it easier for shippers to receive end-to-end information about their shipments, and streamline such processes as customs and interchanges between freight carriers, including railroads — Class Is, in particular. How are they factoring blockchain into their supply chain strategies? In this technology update, we talk with representatives from a sampling of railroads.

July Issue Bonus Distribution:
American Association of Railroad Superintendents/Progressive Railroading's Rising Stars Recognition Dinner (July 22, 2019, Hilton Norfolk The Main, Norfolk, Virginia)

Mike Singler

Regional Sales Manager
815-302-7055
mike.singler@tradepress.com