ASR-23
Skate Retarder

Electrically controlled railcar braking for classification + hump yard operations.

The ASR-23 is an electrically-controlled skate retarder engineered to safely stop & hold railcars in classification & hump yards. Electrically-controlled operation, multiple power configurations & push-button shimming simplify operation & maintenance while providing dependable braking performance at critical control points throughout the yard.

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Product Overview

A rail yard skate retarder built for reliable railcar control.

ASR–23

A mechanical device with black metal parts, red coils, and various small metallic components, resembling a component of an industrial machine or robotics assembly.

The ASR-23 is designed to replace powered skate retarders in yard applications requiring dependable railcar braking and holding. Installed in tandem, it applies braking force to both trucks of a railcar, providing controlled stopping at critical locations throughout the yard.

Designed for standard gauge track, the ASR-23 combines mechanical durability with electrically controlled operation for consistent performance in demanding yard environments. When brake adjustment is required, maintainers can move the retarder into its shim position with the push of a button rather than manually loosening brake shoe bolts to install shims. This simplifies a maintenance task that can otherwise require significant time at the equipment.

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ENGINEERING OVERVIEW

ASR–23

The ASR-23 uses an electrically driven cam gearbox and mechanical spring-return braking system to apply controlled braking force to passing railcars. Multiple drive-power configurations allow the retarder to be matched to existing site electrical infrastructure, while push-button shim positioning simplifies brake adjustment by eliminating the need to loosen brake shoe bolts to create clearance for shimming.

Model train track with a black train station on a section of railroad track.

  • The ASR-23 is an electrically controlled skate retarder designed to safely slow, stop and hold railcars in classification and hump yard applications. Using an electrically driven cam gearbox, the retarder actuates a pair of sliding brake channels that apply controlled braking force to the wheel flanges as the railcar passes through the braking zone.

    A spring-return mechanism automatically returns the brake assemblies to their normal position after operation, reducing mechanical complexity while providing dependable, repeatable performance over thousands of operating cycles. When installed in tandem with a second panel, the ASR-23 applies braking force to both trucks of the railcar for consistent car control.

    Design Features

    • Electrically actuated cam gearbox

    • Push-button shim positioning

    • Mechanical spring-return operation

    • Sliding brake channel design

    • Brake pad assemblies

    • Damping spring system

    • Tandem installation for full railcar braking

  • Engineered for continuous service in demanding rail yard environments, the ASR-23 provides electrically controlled braking with a dedicated shim position for brake adjustment. With the push of a button, maintainers can move the retarder into the shim position without loosening brake shoe bolts to create the required clearance.

    Operating Characteristics

    • Average cycle time (Closed → Open): 20 seconds

    • Average cycle time (Closed → Shim): 40 seconds

    • Operating temperature: -40°F to +185°F (-40°C to +85°C)

    • Electrically controlled operation

    • Designed for continuous classification and hump yard service

    This allows routine brake adjustment to be performed with less mechanical disassembly and less maintainer time at the retarder.

  • The ASR-23 integrates with both existing control infrastructure and modern yard control systems.

    The retarder supports multiple operating methods, allowing it to be controlled locally or remotely depending on operational requirements.

    Supported Control Methods

    • Remote control circuits

    • Data and network communications

    • DTMF via VHF/UHF radio

    • Local push-button operation

    Three inductive proximity sensors continuously monitor retarder position, providing reliable state indication through PNP normally open outputs for integration with yard control systems.

  • The ASR-23 is available in multiple drive-power configurations, allowing the retarder to be specified for the electrical infrastructure available at the installation site.

    Electrical Specifications

    Available Drive Power:
    • 480VAC, 3-phase
    • 208VAC, 3-phase
    • 110/220VAC, single-phase

    Control Voltage: 24VDC (+/-5%)

    Designed for straightforward integration into standard industrial electrical infrastructure while providing reliable operation under demanding service conditions.

  • The ASR-23 is engineered for installation on standard North American rail infrastructure while providing a robust braking surface and durable mechanical construction.

    Physical Specifications

    • Track Gauge: 4 ft 8½ in (1435 mm)

    • Rail Size: 136RE (136 lbs/yd)

    • Overall Length: 39 ft (1188.7 cm)

    • Overall Width: 9 ft (274.3 cm)

    • Overall Height: 1 ft 6¼ in (46.4 cm)

    • Estimated Shipping Weight: 25,000 lbs (11,340 kg)

    Typical dimensions may vary slightly depending on the supplied track material and installation configuration.

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