The BRAD – an alternative choice for the BRM8
Although the Geismar BRM8 is no longer available – we do have the BRAD – Tamping Machine
The mighty hydraulic ballast tamper, model BRAD, is a compact machine allowing all tamping operations on the track to be carried out by one operator from their single position for both driving and working in the cab. The BRAD is a self-propelled, off-trackable unit, fitted with 2 tamping heads. This machine has been designed to satisfy the requirement to mechanise track maintenance works. It is fitted with 2 independent tamping heads, located between the axles, able to operate simultaneously on both rails. On both sides of each rail, thus ensuring high output tamping of good quality, including the tamping of twin sleepers.
The BRAD Tamping Machine
All driving and working functions are controlled from a single control panel, situated in an enclosed and soundproof cab with large, windowed areas, allowing the operator to have excellent visibility of the working area in the conditions of utmost comfort. Its integrated, movable off-tracking device, - fast and self-contained - is achieved by four rubber tyred hydraulically driven wheels. This device gives an additional advantage to the BRAD for tamping the main, heavy-traffic lines and also for tamping smaller or single lines.
The BRAD consists of the following elements:
A frame made of electrically welded steel sections, bearing the cab, the engine, the tamping heads and auxiliary devices. A screw shackle and two rubber buffers are mounted at each end.A power unit with an air-cooled Diesel engine, driving hydraulic pumps which provide the necessary power for different driving and working devices. The engine compartment is soundproof and provides easy access to the engine elements.The cab is mounted on rubber pads in order to insulate the cab from engine vibrations and has all the safety features needed for safe and comfortable operation (e.g. Safety glass glazing, windscreen wipers, washers, air-conditioning, heating, interior lighting and more). It also has a second seat or another 2nd operator and ergonomic swiveling seat with a control panel and handrails for easy access on both sides of the cab.The tamping unit is fitted with 2 independent heads, located between the two axles, one head per rail. Each head is vertically guided.
There are so many more details for this incredible machine – The BRAD!