Articles

May 16, 2019 - Celebrating the anniversary of the Trackmobile® ATLAS!

In Greek mythology, ATLAS was a Titan condemned to hold up the celestial heavens for eternity after the Titanomachy. Just like the Greek Titan for which it was named the ATLAS is designed to be the most durable and toughest railcar mover of the modern era. This time last year Trackmobile® announced its’ new ATLAS model that was engineered to better accommodate rail application locations requiring greater tractive effort due to unfavorable conditions. In honor of the success and outstanding performance results the ATLAS has had we thought it pertinent to take the time to celebrate a masterpiece of engineering achievement!

Trackmobile® and the ATLAS name have a long and diverse history. The Atlas V expendable launch system was developed by Lockheed Martin Commercial Launch Services as part of the US Air Force Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle (EELV) program and made its inaugural flight; with a great deal of help from Trackmobile®, on August 21, 2002.

Delivering 43,900 pounds of single coupled tractive effort, and 60,200 pounds when double coupled, the ATLAS not only offers more capacity but also offers state of the art operator comfort & ease-of-use. Furthermore, as is standard in all Trackmobile® models, the ATLAS is equipped with cutting edge technology such as the Safe-T-Vue™ 360° Camera System, on-board touch screen displays, and a real-time diagnostics system to assist with proactive maintenance. 

The first new model introduction by Trackmobile® since 2006, the ATLAS is loaded to capacity with enhanced features, including:

• Upgraded traverse coupler control valve that smooths out compression in tight curves, reducing potential for coupler buckling

• Enhanced hydraulic roadwheel lift, allowing wheels to extend 33% faster

• Locking rear railwheel alignment window cover, maintains cab temperature and reduces noise 

• 12 step cab epoxy dipping and finish painting to penetrate and seal all crevices for optimal rust resistance

• Premium HVAC system for unparalleled defrost, heating, and cooling effectiveness

• Fully suspended cab design for enhanced operator comfort with reduced rail vibration

• Forged steel wheels to offering longer wheel life 

• Transmission mounted hydraulic parking brake, using self-contained wet disc brakes

• Tinted and tempered glass that meets ANSI 26.1 standard

• Embedded LED headlights

• Coat hooks

• Locking glove compartment

• "Trackmobiles have always offered high quality and value in railcar spotting and switching" stated Ralph Przybyszewski, President of Trackmobile®, and now the ATLAS takes us to the next level in locomotive replacements for in-plant usage.” 

On-site testing of the Atlas at several different customer locations with challenging environments has proven that the newest design delivers as promised and much more.