A new standard in precision ballast placement
Ballast Distribution Machine
With impressive speed and accuracy, the Automated Conveyor Train℠ (ACT℠) distributes material safely and efficiently in a curve. Using patented automated programming, the ACT can unload more than 2,900 tons of material in a 30-car consist as it moves along the track.

New construction
Stockpiling
Surfacing work
Short line railroads
Rail transit systems
First to unload a 30-car ballast consist in a curve
Herzog designed and built the ACT because the industry was in need of a reliable solution to stockpile rock in curves and S curves. It is used for routine maintenance or emergency tasks and offers 24/7 field support.
Technology Features
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One-person operation All operations of the train are controlled within the climate-controlled, protected cab. No workers are exposed to silica dust or adverse weather.
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Quick mobilization between sites The ACT can instantly pause dumping and move to the next location with no additional setup time.
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Curve-capable The ACT unloads anywhere up to a 13° curve, including S curves, without downtime.
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Individual conveyors Individual conveyors under each car give you the ability to distribute a variety of materials in one consist, at multiple job sites, in any order.
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Built to Plate C specifications Positive lock mechanism allows for train movement on adjacent tracks while the 35′ boom unloads to the field side.
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Automated plow Located on the front of discharge car, the plow strikes off material that is off-loaded directly in front of the machine in the center of the track.