Greater performance and reliability in freight traffic: voestalpine Railway Systems presents the Keyway Tie at InnoTrans 2026

21 July 2026 |

At InnoTrans 2026 in September, voestalpine Railway Systems will present the Keyway Tie. This concrete tie, specially developed for individual replacement of sleepers in wooden sleeper tracks, features an integrated fastening system and combines the advantages of concrete and wood in a single solution. It ensures greater stability, a longer track lifespan, and enables phased modernization without costly modifications. It can be used in freight traffic as well as in urban and mixed traffic.

Proven solution for existing wooden sleeper tracks

The Keyway Tie was specifically developed for use on lines that are still equipped with wooden sleepers. It can be installed directly between existing wooden sleepers and can be laid using standard track construction and maintenance equipment. This allows for phased modernization without the need to replace entire sections of track.

The advantages at a glance

The unique feature of the Keyway Tie is the combination of the properties of wood and concrete. While concrete ensures stability and a long service life, the system simultaneously retains the flexibility and running characteristics of a wooden sleeper.

These are the advantages:

Direct installation into existing wooden sleeper tracks
Increased track stability
Longer service life of track components
Reduced wear on adjacent wooden sleepers
Reduced maintenance requirements
Adjustable track gauge for varying track conditions
High durability even under heavy loads
Gradual conversion from wood to concrete without major operational disruptions

Another advantage is the adjustable stiffness of the tie. This allows it to be optimally adapted to the specific requirements of a track, such as in transition areas or on bridges.

More performance with minimal intervention

With the Keyway Tie, voestalpine Railway Systems offers a practical solution for railway operators who want to strengthen their infrastructure without incurring high costs or lengthy closures. It improves track geometry, increases reliability, and supports the phased modernization of existing networks. At InnoTrans 2026, voestalpine Railway Systems will demonstrate how modern track systems can be further developed economically and sustainably.

The InnoTrans is regarded as THE most important international trade fair for transportation technology and takes place every two years at the Berlin Exhibition Grounds. To mark its 30th anniversary, voestalpine Railway Systems — the world’s leading provider of complete railway infrastructure systems — will showcase its latest developments in digital system solutions.

Come visit us!

Experience System Performance on Track® from September 22–25 in Hall 21b, Booth No. 150.