Performance, modernization and noise reduction: new rail lubricators installed in the Old Port
On Tuesday, June 3, our teams installed new rail lubricators in the Old Port. This busy pedestrian sector bordered by residential areas faced major challenges in terms of noise pollution from passing trains. This is why these measures were taken to modernize the infrastructure while cutting noise.
What is a rail lubricator?
A device installed on the outside rail of a track where the track curves, making the wheel to rail friction higher, the rail lubricator is triggered by passing train wheels to automatically dispense a lubricant (water-based grease and graphite along with biodegradable grease). Its role is to prevent wear and reduce noise.
Our teams replaced four existing rail lubricators with a new, more efficient model. This new equipment provides several benefits:
- It is s controlled automatically and remotely, allowing real-time monitoring.
- It reduces the need for on-site intervention, which lowers maintenance costs.
- It optimizes the amount of lubricant used according to traffic and conditions, thanks to wheel detection dosing.
- It helps reduce noise, specifically by adjusting the amount of lubrication. A noise study was also carried out in 2023 to identify the optimal position for these new lubricators.
The work was carried out in two stages: first, electrical work was done to ensure that the automated systems were properly connected, and then our teams physically installed the lubricators on the rails. This initiative is part of an ongoing effort to modernize our rail infrastructure and reduce our impact on neighbouring communities, combining operational performance and environmental responsibility.
June 16, 2025