Digitalization at record speed: Modernized Finnentrop interlocking successfully commissioned

The new state-of-the-art digital technology makes the rail network more robust and reliable while enabling better control and greater flexibility of trains. Maintenance of the rail line will also take less work and be easier. The inauguration marks the first commissioning of a project in the federal government’s €500-million Fast-track Program.



Andre Rodenbeck, CEO Rail Infrastructure Siemens Mobility, Uwe Kober, Bürgermeister Altena, Jens Bergmann, DB Netz AG

“The digitalization of rail is gaining speed. Thanks to the close collaboration between the federal government, DB and industry, were inaugurating the expanded and modernized Finnentrop interlocking after just 18 months of work. Together we are creating a new rail network for Germany – with higher capacity and greater reliability. This way, we’ll be able to offer our customers more environmentally friendly trains and thus actively protect the environment,” said Jens Bergmann, Board Member for Infrastructure Planning and Projects at DB Netz AG.

“By introducing digital interlocking technology, we are reducing service disruptions and creating the basis for rail automation and expanded rail mobility. Passengers, freight and the environment all profit from this,” said Andre Rodenbeck, CEO Rail Infrastructure at Siemens Mobility. “The example of Finnentrop shows that we are ready and able to quickly and successfully digitalize Germany’s rail network together with Deutsche Bahn.”

The three interlockings in Nachrodt, Plettenberg and Altenhundem – all between 30 and 50 years old – were replaced with modern technology. The three newly installed modules in Altena, Plettenberg and Altenhundem are connected to the central Finnentrop interlocking that now centrally controls the entire route.

On behalf of DB and as general contractor for the project, Siemens Mobility GmbH modernized the line’s signaling and interlocking technology in record time together with LEONHARD WEISS GmbH & Co. KG. A total of 385 kilometers of cable were laid on 45 kilometers of the line between Letmathe and Kreuztal; 235 signals and 73 point machines were renewed; and nine new signal arms were installed. In addition, four level crossings were renewed or replaced, and eleven level crossings were adapted to the new technology.

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