Plasser & Theurer has received a major order from the DB Bahnbau Group, which has purchased 18 UnimatExpress 2X-4×4 Dynamic tamping machines. The contract is one of the most important individual agreements for ballasting machines ever concluded by the Austrian manufacturer. Equipped with advanced digital systems, the new machines set new standards for modern railway maintenance.
“The new tamping machines are an investment in the future and will replace several outdated machines. The purchase of 18 identical and universally usable units reduces the current diversity in the fleet. This allows us to plan maintenance and spare parts management much more efficiently. These modern machines also run on HVO fuels, contributing to our sustainability goals,” said Markus Egerer, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the DB Bahnbau Group.
2X-4×4 screening unit: versatility for straight lines and track equipment
UnimatExpress machines are equipped with the 2X-4×4 screening unit, which combines two specialized halves in a single system:
- a flexible half, optimized for the complex geometries of track equipment
- a wear-resistant half, designed for straight lines
This combination even allows working in 2 sleepers simultaneously mode in most of the track equipment area, which substantially increases productivity and reduces time spent on site.
Integrated dynamic stabilization for high efficiency
The new machines also include a dynamic track stabilization system, eliminating the need for a second dedicated machine. In addition, the number of speed restrictions remaining after the work is completed is significantly reduced, which increases the availability of the infrastructure during periods of heavy traffic.
Automation and digital assistance systems
Plasser & Theurer has been developing automation systems for maintenance machines for over ten years, consolidating its position as a technology leader. The new DB Bahnbau Group machines are equipped with a complete range of digital systems designed to optimize the work process and reduce the potential for human error.
Plasser TampingAssistant is the first integrated digital system for the entire tamping process, from pre-measurements to documentation. Artificial intelligence and advanced sensors provide recommendations to operators and significantly simplify machine operation.
This digital system supports the automation of the tamping process and helps the operator to create a precise and durable track geometry. Sensors in the tamping unit enable a process based on the actual condition of the material, providing real-time feedback.
Modern track geometry measurement systems
The machines are equipped with two modern systems:
- Plasser InertialTrackGeometry, which measures the actual track geometry without contact, immediately visualizing deviations. It operates from standstill to the maximum speed of the machine.
- Plasser ReferencedTrackGeometry, a measurement system based on fixed points in space, used to determine the necessary lifts and shifts. This allows work to be carried out without line closures, reducing manual labor and the impact on rail traffic.
The new machines are equipped with the ETCS system in accordance with European interoperability requirements. This prepares them for integration into the ERTMS system, which will gradually replace the numerous national train control systems.
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