ML-18C MAINLINE MACHINE

ML-18C railroad switch machine installation

ML-18C

Advanced railroad track switch system

ML-18C Electric Hydraulic Mainline Railroad Switch Macihne System

The ML-18C represents the latest advancement in railroad switch technology from Advanced Rail Systems, purpose-built for mainline applications where performance and safety are paramount. Engineered with the same trailable reliability as our popular yard machines, the ML-18C offers increased protection in the event of a run-through—ensuring smooth, damage-free operation even under demanding conditions.

With dual connecting rods, advanced proximity sensors, and built-in overthrow and broken rod detection, the ML-18C delivers unmatched safety, responsiveness, and automation capabilities for railroad track switch applications. Whether you’re upgrading mainline infrastructure or designing a new system, the ML-18C is the dependable solution that’s raising the standard in railroad switching.

Hydraulic mainline switch machine in operation

YM-16

High-Performance Yard Switch Solution

Upgrade your mainline with the ML-18C—our most advanced electric hydraulic railroad switch built for high-performance rail operations. Contact Advanced Rail Systems today for specs, pricing, or integration support for your switching and automation systems.

Key Features of the ML-18C Railroad Switch System

  • Electrically controlled hydraulic actuation for smooth, precise switch movement
  • Trail-able design allows trains to pass through at up to 40 mph without damaging components
  • Dual proximity sensors per rod to detect both position and provide a two-wire position indication circuits required for the mainline.
  • Redundant dual springs maintain switch integrity during rail load shifts or disconnections
  • Out-of-correspondence detection alerts operators when points are open or rods are damaged
  • No special linkage required — direct drive connects straight to the switch point rods
  • Sealed bearings at all pivot points eliminate routine maintenance
  • Automatic cylinder centering for safer installation and servicing
  • Manual operation via removable pump handle for emergencies or setup
  • Optional SIL-2-rated fail-safe proximity sensors for critical safety applications
  • Compatible with 12VDC automated control systems and solar charging
  • Optional LED indicators display real-time switch position
  • DTMF and audible feedback with UHF/VHF radios provide low-cost remote control
  • Integrated train occupancy OS detection provides failsafe operations.
Fail-safe proximity sensor for railroad switching

Yard switch machine

Why Choose the ML-18C Mainline Railroad Switch for Dark Territory Remote Control Operations

Designed specifically for mainline railroad switch systems, the ML-18C sets a new benchmark for safety, speed, and operational resilience. Unlike conventional switch machines, it integrates comprehensive monitoring of rod integrity and position, ensuring reliable feedback to the control unit in real time. Its trailable design enables safe passage during unexpected run-throughs—supporting speeds up to 40 mph—and its robust hydraulic actuation completes throws in just 2.5 seconds.

Perfect for dark territory DTMF remote control operations, our ML-18C can be equipped for remote control from the locomotive cab using radio keypad codes. Audible voice messages send verbal position indication messages back to locomotive operators.

Whether you’re modernizing a switch system or building from the ground up, the ML-18C provides advanced automation features like auto-restore, auto-return, and manual override for full control under any scenario. It’s not just a switch machine—it’s a smarter, safer, and more reliable future for railroad switching.

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MAINLINE MACHINE

ML-18C MAINLINE SWITCH MACHINE