Abstract: In a system to prevent train derailment due to axle failure resulting from ournal bearing overheating, a thermal sensor continuously monitors the temperature of the bearing and activates the brake system when the temperature exceeds a predetermined level. A thermally-responsive element located in the journal bearing housing physically deforms to activate a power source. The resulting signal initiates an electro-explosive brake line venting mechanism, which punctures and vents brake line to stop the train. Several configurations of the thermal sensor and the power source are possible.

Abstract: An anti-derailment system to prevent train derailment due to axle failure sulting from journal bearing overheating includes a thermal sensor to continuously monitor the temperature of the bearing and to activate the brake system when the temperature exceeds a predetermined level. A thermally-responsive element located in the journal bearing adapter physically deforms to activate a power source. The resulting signal initiates an electroexplosive brake line venting mechanism, puncturing and venting the brake line to stop the train. Several configurations of the thermal sensor and the power source are possible.