Assessing the efficiency of application of the technology of handling heavy multiple unit trains

Abstract

The paper presents the results of studying the efficiency of use at the railway loop of the technology of handling heavy multiple-unit trains made up with several heavy train units, the mass of each of which is higher than the scheduled one. This technology is advisable to apply in conditions where the mass of a heavy multiple unit train consisting of m heavy train units exceeds the mass of a scheduled train by more than n times. The paper presents the main advantages and disadvantages of the technology of making-up and handling of heavy multiple-unit trains, as well as the classification of the main cost indicators, which should be taken into account when determining the economic efficiency of the technology. The formulas for calculating the cost, return and investment are presented. Assessing the economic efficiency of applying the technology for making-up and driving heavy multiple-unit freight trains can be done using indicators – operating profit, comparative economic effect and a simple payback period of investments. In addition to the specified set of indicators, economic criteria can be calculated taking into account the influence of the time factor: net present value, profitability index and discounted payback period of the project. Using the presented methodology will allow evaluating economic effect of application of the technology of making-up and handling of heavy-duty multiple-unit trains as that responding the growing freight traffic.