Switch Systems – The Backbone of Modern Railway Infrastructure
An integrated view of innovation, reliability and digital intelligence.
www.voestalpine.com
At a time when the railway industry is under enormous pressure to deliver more capacity, higher availability and more intelligent processes, voestalpine Railway Systems is meeting these requirements with a comprehensive systems approach for turnouts – going far beyond the classic understanding of components.
More Than Just Components: A Holistic System
A switch system fundamentally consists of more than just the switch mechanism, frog, rails, switch drive(s) and locks, base plates, sleepers, and fastenings. It also includes sensors, software, and intelligent monitoring technologies. Only the optimized interaction of these components transforms individual parts into a true system.
One of our Systems Experts said:
We consider the interaction of all fixed and moving parts right from the start – this is crucial for performance and reliability. This systematic approach minimizes interface problems, increases system quality, and opens up data-driven maintenance strategies.
Tailor-Made Solutions for Various Rail Segments
Switch systems must adapt to different operating requirements – from high-speed lines to freight transport routes and urban networks:
. High speed: Highest material and manufacturing quality for extreme forces and precision.
. Heavy-duty transport: Extreme axle loads and stress with maximum efficiency.
. Urban transport: compact design, short response times, noise reduction.
. Mixed traffic: Optimization for both passenger and freight trains.
voestalpine offers a suitable, performance-optimized solution for every application.
System Intelligence for Availability & Efficiency
Switches are among the most sensitive components in the rail network – malfunctions have immediate repercussions. Therefore, voestalpine Railway Systems relies on holistic monitoring:
With sensors and monitoring platforms such as zentrak, the condition and function of all critical areas are monitored around the clock – from wear in the crossing to the condition of the ballast.
In this way, intelligent switches continuously provide data and enable predictive maintenance: instead of reacting to failures, necessary maintenance measures can be planned specifically and carried out efficiently.
Sustainability and Profitability: The TCO Focus
voestalpine Railway Systems develops all systems with a focus on the entire life cycle and the associated total cost of ownership (TCO). This means:
. Longer maintenance intervals.
. Digital twins and asset management.
. Retrofit options for existing systems.
. Material solutions with a reduced CO₂ footprint.
This reduces the total cost of ownership (TCO) – a key goal for operators worldwide.
Global Experience, Partnership Support
With decades of experience, metallurgical know-how, and a global network, voestalpine Railway Systems implements intelligent turnout systems with true system responsibility – from planning and delivery to support during installation, commissioning, and emergency support.
Vision of the Future: Digital, Robust and Sustainable Switches
Today, research and development focus on intelligent switches, resilient materials, and digital solutions across the entire lifecycle. Railway systems are becoming increasingly intelligent – and voestalpine Railway Systems is shaping the heart of this transformation.
www.voestalpine.com
