Our innovations
Technology has taken such leaps and bounds these last decades that the only thing limiting the possibilities these days is our own imagination. For this reason, we make sure to be even more attentive of our clients, as the solution of new equipment and more intelligent working methods is contained within their problem. And so we keep asking ourselves: can we operate quicker? Safer? Quieter, more sustainable?
This is how we created Icesolution, a method of heating switches in extremely cold areas with a lot of snow and ice through geothermal heat. Or how about our rail dampers, a system for reducing noise to the point where you see the trains move, but cannot hear them? Or the mobile workshop, which allows the adjacent tracks to simply remain in service.
Progress does not only mean wonderfully large-scale projects. Sometimes progress comes in tiny solutions with a major impact. All tracks must be maintained ever so often. Welds are without a doubt the weakest links of the tracks. You could say that tracks are only as strong as their weakest weld. For this reason, we developed the unique SuperWeld technique, which allows us to make super strong welds! Less maintenance, so fewer disruptions and greater progress.
Our innovations
Existing techniques and methods are sometimes not enough to enable one to adequately perform a given task. Sometimes they are simply dated and costly. VolkerRail is always looking for the very latest techniques. Let's look at a number of successful products that might also provide added value for our clients:
* Vector booted system: high degree of noise & vibration mitigation with good electrical insulation.
* Geothermal Point Heating (GPH-system) keeps switch points operational in even the most extreme (cold) weather conditions, using geothermal heat.
* The Mobile Workshop is one of the most ground-breaking railway innovation in modern times. An efficient, safe and movable workshop that limits disruptions in train service to an absolute minimum.
* Rail dampers make the tracks notably quieter, thanks to the clipped rail damper.
* Rail magnets eliminate delays caused by iron filings on the tracks.
* SuperWeld quickly and efficiently produces robust closure welds (and stresses) by means of mobile electric flash-butt welding technology.
* Gauge Corner Restoration Welding is a unique welding technique that allows in-situ repair of grooved rail profile.
