Metro News Release
For immediate release: October 22, 2007
Rail flaws cause minor delays on part the Red Line
Repairs to be made Monday Night
Metrorail passengers can expect minor delays today on part of the Red Line in Montgomery County, Md.
A special ultrasonic testing machine detected the flaws last night in a section of track between Medical Center and Friendship Heights stations. Trains have been traveling at reduced speeds in the area since this morning. They are moving at a maximum speed of 35 miles per hour, instead of 44 miles per hour until repairs can be made overnight.
Track workers made temporary repairs last night and plan to install a new 39-foot section of rail between Medical Center and Friendship Heights stations tonight, once the rail system closes.
The defects were detected by a special machine operated by Sperry Rail Services. The machine rides the rails and uses ultrasonic testing to detect cracks or other flaws. This type of inspection is conducted fives times a year, which is more than double the number of inspections from three years ago. Track inspectors also visually inspect the rails twice a week to ensure the reliability and safety of the rail system.
News release issued at 12:00 am, October 22, 2007.