Automated rail lubricators reduce noise in Montreal’s Old Port

On June 3rd, the Port of Montreal installed four new-generation rail lubricators in the Old Port, a high-traffic area where noise mitigation is a priority. These automated systems apply an environmentally friendly lubricant – made of water, graphite, and biodegradable grease – when train wheels pass over curved tracks, which reduces rail wear and lowers friction noise.

The new equipment facilitates remote monitoring, optimizes lubricant distribution in real time according to rail traffic, and reduces the need for on-site maintenance. The placement of the lubricators followed a 2023 noise study to identify the most effective locations.

Installing the new lubricators is part of the port’s ongoing efforts to modernize its infrastructure and reduce operational impacts in urban areas.

^{Photos credit : Montreal Port Authority}