Centre for Surface Transportation Technology

The Centre for Surface Transportation Technology (CSTT) conducts surface transportation research, development engineering and vehicle and systems testing of rail and road transportation. Since 1995, CSTT has operated as an autonomous, self-supporting institute within the National Research Council (NRC).
R&D, engineering, and testing areas
—Heavy vehicle research and engineering design—Development and prototyping support for vehicle systems—Suspension optimization and analysis—Mobility analysis and enhancement—Rail vehicle / track analysis and solutions—Preventative maintenance solutions and refurbishment programs—Dynamic and structural computer modeling, analysis and software solutions—Field and laboratory testing—Problem characterization and solution—Environmental simulation and analysis—Testing and consulting for improving the performance of vehicles and their components under severe climatic conditions from -45 C to +55 C
-- Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) design and test engineering—Power management systems design and development—Custom communications cable manufacturing—Technical documentation.
Main campus
CSTT is located on a campus located near the Ottawa International Airport. Facilities include:
-- a climatic chamber (the largest with rail access in Canada)
-- a heavy vehicle tilt facility—a rail vehicle impact ramp—a massive squeeze and tension frame—vibration testing facilities for vehicles, sub-assemblies and components—facilities to test wheels, railway trucks, bearings and brakes—heavy vehicles workshops.
Proving grounds
Off-road testing is conducted at a proving grounds in Ottawa's east end. The calibrated test course includes:
-- paved high-speed tracks—soft soil—rock outcroppings—Belgian pave—granite blocks—30 to 60 percent slopes—20, 30 and 40 percent side slopes—a concrete sine wave course, and—a frame twister.

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