Vossloh Aktiengesellschaft and DB Netz AG have significantly extended their existing framework agreement for preventive rail maintenance. The contract now covers a volume of at least 12,000 km in the coming year. On behalf of DB Netz AG, Vossloh will in particular maintain the highly utilized lines of the German rail network, the so-called high-performance network, using HSG (high-speed-grinding) technology.

In addition, a digital component has been added to the contract. A smart HSG train equipped with extensive measurement and analysis technology will be used to record important track condition data during operation. HSG technology is used for preventive maintenance of the rail network.

Based on a unique grinding process worldwide, Vossloh's maintenance machines can be operated at speeds of up to 80 km/h on mainline lines and up to 60 km/h on urban transport lines. They are equipped with sensor technology, some of which was developed in-house, and can simultaneously record condition data of the rail track during grinding without the need for track closures. The condition data is collected in real time, evaluated by means of algorithms and can be visualized in a web-based application including concrete recommendations for action.

The grinding program can be individually adapted to the respective track condition. Regular use of the smart HSG machines thus not only effectively prevents rail defects and significantly extends rail service life, but also forms the basis for predictive maintenance of the rail track as the data history grows.