zentrak ECOSTAR 5.0: Modern switch machine technology for future-proof turnout systems

8 October 2026 |

Reliable turnouts are a key requirement for safe and efficient railway operations. With ECOSTAR 5.0, voestalpine Railway Systems offers a modern electro-hydraulic switch machine that combines high reliability, flexible application options, and easy maintenance. In the zentrak ECOSTAR 5.0 configuration, the switch machine is enhanced by zentrak SWITCH CONDITION MONITORING, enabling continuous monitoring of condition data to support a predictive maintenance approach.

ECOSTAR 5.0 at a glance

ECOSTAR 5.0 is a compact switch machine for external locking systems, such as SPHEROLOCK® NG.

Its modular design facilitates maintenance and repair work and helps to simplify servicing procedures, thereby reducing downtime. Furthermore, its low weight allows for easy handling during installation and maintenance.

Thanks to its compact design and compatibility with various interlocking types, the ECOSTAR 5.0 is particularly well-suited for both new installations and the retrofit of existing systems and for use in areas where space is limited.

Key benefits at a glance

Easy integration into existing systems, regardless of the interlocking technology used
Compact design
Lightweight construction for easy installation and handling
Robust and reliable technology for long-term operation
Modular design for simplified maintenance and reduced repair times
High flexibility during installation and operation
Suitable for new installations, refurbishment, and modernization projects

Enhanced transparency with zentrak ECOSTAR 5.0

With zentrak ECOSTAR 5.0, voestalpine Railway Systems combines the proven ECOSTAR 5.0 switch machine with zentrak SWITCH CONDITION MONITORING (zentrak SCM). As a result, operators benefit not only from a reliable switch machine solution, but also from valuable insights into the condition of their turnout systems.

The fully integrated diagnostic system zentrak SCM continuously records important condition data such as oil level, pressure values, switching force, switching time, detection gap, current profile, and temperature. The data is provided via the zentrak Diagnostic Platform, creating a solid foundation for condition-based infrastructure management.

Digital condition monitoring transforms servicing from a reactive to a proactive task. Infrastructure operators are provided with a reliable database for decision-making, enabling them to plan servicing efforts in line with actual needs, deploy resources efficiently, and optimize the long-term performance of their assets. This provides greater planning certainty for asset management and investment decisions and enhances the overall availability of the rail network.

From high-speed tracks to mixed-traffic and local transport, right through to heavy-haul and freight transport applications: zentrak ECOSTAR 5.0 stands for robust system technology, high availability and reliable performance under a wide variety of operating conditions. When combined with zentrak SWITCH CONDITION MONITORING, rail operators gain a 360° overview of the past, current and future condition of their assets, thereby laying the foundations for a more efficient and predictive maintenance strategy.