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SNAPSHOTS
We want to see how you are creating
a safer world! To submit a photo for
consideration, please email a high-resolution
photo (min. 300 dpi) along with a 100 to
150 word description to MEeditor@asnt.org.
GETTING A BIRD’S-EYE VIEW
Railroads use drones to inspect bridges and to take video and pictures of hard-to-
reach areas within the bridge. Sonar identifies increased erosion around the piers,
which can compromise a bridge’s integrity. Sonar sends sound waves that bounce off
the bridge piers and the ground surface below the water. Then, based on the nature
of the echo, railroads determine whether there are any concerns with the stability of
the bridge piers. Loose or missing fasteners in track or soft spots in ballast could cause
more stress on the track structure and lead to signal problems. Railroads use drones
most frequently after weather events to look for washouts, downed trees, misaligned
track, and other conditions caused by weather. Drones can also look at areas of track
affected by severe weather. This technology provides trending data because railroads
can compare older snapshots with newer ones.
PHOTO COURTESY OF ASSOCIATION OF AMERICAN RAILROADS, WASHINGTON, DC
112
M A T E R I A L S E V A L U A T I O N • J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 4
2401 ME January.indd 112 12/20/23 8:01 AM
SNAPSHOTS
We want to see how you are creating
a safer world! To submit a photo for
consideration, please email a high-resolution
photo (min. 300 dpi) along with a 100 to
150 word description to MEeditor@asnt.org.
GETTING A BIRD’S-EYE VIEW
Railroads use drones to inspect bridges and to take video and pictures of hard-to-
reach areas within the bridge. Sonar identifies increased erosion around the piers,
which can compromise a bridge’s integrity. Sonar sends sound waves that bounce off
the bridge piers and the ground surface below the water. Then, based on the nature
of the echo, railroads determine whether there are any concerns with the stability of
the bridge piers. Loose or missing fasteners in track or soft spots in ballast could cause
more stress on the track structure and lead to signal problems. Railroads use drones
most frequently after weather events to look for washouts, downed trees, misaligned
track, and other conditions caused by weather. Drones can also look at areas of track
affected by severe weather. This technology provides trending data because railroads
can compare older snapshots with newer ones.
PHOTO COURTESY OF ASSOCIATION OF AMERICAN RAILROADS, WASHINGTON, DC
112
M A T E R I A L S E V A L U A T I O N • J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 4
2401 ME January.indd 112 12/20/23 8:01 AM
