UniAC[2] axle counting system – a key step towards EULYNX-compliant rail infrastructure

5 August 2026 |

As the railway industry continues its digital transformation, the demand for standardized solutions that enable seamless interaction between different systems is growing. EULYNX has emerged as one of the key standards for modern signalling and control technology. With its UniAC[2] axle counting system, voestalpine Railway Systems contributes to this development by providing a high-performance train detection solution for the railway infrastructure of the future.

UniAC[2] – Reliable train detection for modern rail operations

Accurate train detection is a fundamental requirement for safe and efficient railway operations. The UniAC[2] axle counting system combines trackside detection technology with reliable processing and evaluation functions to determine track occupancy with a high degree of precision.

UniAC[2] is based on a clearly structured separation into functional components. The UniAS[2] wheel sensor ensures reliable wheel detection in the field, even under demanding environmental conditions, while the AXM module provides the safety-related evaluation, counting logic, and system integration.

The system architecture allows installation either in signalling rooms or in decentralized locations along the track. This flexibility helps to reduce cable lengths, simplify infrastructure layouts and adapt installations to project-specific requirements.

To further enhance operational availability, UniAC[2] incorporates automated master reset functions. In predefined situations, these features can support the restoration of normal operation following disturbances, helping to minimize service interruptions and maintenance effort, while at the same time increasing availability.

Another feature of the latest generation is the ability to perform SIL4-compliant speed measurement using a single wheel sensor in selected applications. This can reduce hardware requirements while maintaining the necessary safety standards.

Designed for safe and secure railway operations

UniAC[2] has been developed to support EULYNX-based signalling concepts and fulfils the relevant requirements for standardized communication in the areas of safety, diagnostics, maintenance and cybersecurity.

An important aspect of the system architecture is its built-in approach to cybersecurity. Instead of relying on separate external security devices, protection mechanisms are integrated directly into the system design. This reduces system complexity and supports a streamlined implementation of security functions throughout the solution.

UniAC[2] on track in Switzerland

The growing acceptance of UniAC[2] is reflected in its deployment within international railway projects. One important milestone is the long-term framework agreement with Swiss Federal Railways (SBB), which extends over a period of up to twenty years.

Through this collaboration, voestalpine Railway Systems is supplying advanced axle counting technology for one of Europe's most demanding rail networks.

The project also reflects the industry's ongoing transition towards standardized signalling architectures and EULYNX-based solutions, where interoperability and clearly defined interfaces play an increasingly important role.

With its SIL4-certified UniAC[2] axle counting system, voestalpine Railway Systems combines proven train detection technology with the requirements of modern, EULYNX-oriented railway infrastructure.

The combination of reliable train detection, standardized interfaces and integrated security functions enables seamless integration into modern railway architectures. As interoperability and digitalization continue to shape the industry, EULYNX-compliant solutions such as UniAC[2] will play an important role in the modernization of railway infrastructure.