Korea Railroad Improves Foldable Operation Railroad Crossing Barrier Device

by Jeong Ilwoong

Published 18 Apr.2023 09:55(KST)

Korea Railroad Corporation (KORAIL) has embarked on the development of a foldable railroad crossing barrier device focused on improving safety performance.

Concept image of a foldable railroad crossing barrier under development by Korea Railroad. Provided by Korea Railroad Corporation.

According to Korea Railroad on the 19th, this device operates by unfolding the barrier arm, which is folded in half when a train passes.

Compared to the existing barriers where the entire arm moves, this device can operate over a longer distance with less force, allowing a single barrier arm to simultaneously block pedestrian and vehicle traffic, which is its key advantage.

Additionally, Korea Railroad explained that the foldable barrier remains folded until a train approaches, preventing accidents where the high-voltage overhead wire and the barrier arm might come into contact even if a collision occurs due to a car accident.

Currently, they are reviewing ways to improve visibility by changing the barrier arm shape to a rectangular cross-section with a wider area, and after testing integration with other crossing safety equipment and on-site installation, the goal is to introduce it by next year.

Ko Jun-young, Acting President of Korea Railroad, stated, “We will continue research and development to enhance the performance and safety of railroad crossing safety devices and focus on preventing crossing accidents through joint facility inspections and campaigns with related organizations.”