Why do MARC trains operate under restricted speed during warm weather?
Whenever temperatures are forecast to reach near 90 degrees or in the event that temperatures should increase by 30 degrees, CSX will impose “Heat Restrictions” after 1:00pm. All Brunswick & Camden MARC trains will operate 20 miles per hour under the normal maximum authorized speed but not less than 40 miles per hour. In addition, track inspectors will be out in the afternoon rush hour inspecting the track for “sun kinks”. CSX inspectors may cause extra delays contingent upon other train traffic in the area. Depending upon the length of the trip and the number of stops, delays can range from 10 to 35 minutes (Train 877 to Martinsburg normally suffers the most delay because of its long trip and express schedule). These heat restrictions are designed to reduce the impact on the track structure and minimize the possibility of sun kinks. Railroad track is generally laid with one-quarter mile lengths of rail. As heat increases, the rail expands placing more stress on the ties and ballast ho
