With the zentrak MODULAR DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM (MDS), voestalpine Railway Systems introduces a modular diagnostic system that monitors rolling stock using a variety of sensor types. Depending on the application, infrared, fiber-optic, acoustic, and/or optical sensors are used. This allows, for example, overheated axle bearing housings or overloading to be detected.

In rail transport, enormous amounts of data are generated daily by sensors along the tracks that collect information about trains as they pass by or travel through. When used correctly, this data provides valuable insights into the condition of rolling stock and enables the early detection of hazardous situations. Prompt intervention can minimize damage, even prevent it entirely, and maximize the availability of both the infrastructure and the rolling stock. The rolling stock monitoring software, zentrak CENTRAL MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE (CMS) from voestalpine Railway Systems, centrally aggregates this information and makes it usable for operators.

Compared to road transport, rail transport is considered safer and more eco-friendly. However, with the increasing shift to e-mobility, a new challenge is emerging: Securing and further expanding the ecological advantage of rail transport in the long term. What role do life cycle thinking and circular economy play in this? Christian Aichberger, sustainability expert at voestalpine Railway Systems, provides insights into how these issues are viewed holistically and translated into concrete solutions. 

In the future, even more people and goods are expected to be transported by rail. As a result, the rail network is increasingly reaching its limits. How can rail remain an attractive part of the transport chain in the future? Sandra Baltic, Product Manager at voestalpine Railway Systems, talks about the role of digitalization in increasing availability, safety, and predictive maintenance. 

Concrete sleepers in track construction are a product that stands for continuity rather than innovation. But there is a lot going on in this area. In this interview, Wolfgang Hölzl - Engineering, Design & R&D Sleeper at voestalpine Railway Systems - tells us why sleepers are more than just a simple piece of concrete and what the sleeper of the future looks like at voestalpine Railway Systems. 

They are barely visible, yet so crucial for safety and efficiency on the track: fastening systems play a central role in load transfer and elasticity control. In this interview, Thomas Mayer, Vice President – R&D and Engineering Fastening Systems, provides insights into the complex world of fastening systems and shows why the interaction of components determines performance and service life.

From training at the company’s own academy through planning, surveying and alignment planning to production, logistics and installation support, voestalpine Railway Systems provides end‑to‑end system solutions across the entire value chain. Supported by professional on‑track service teams and comprehensive digital monitoring throughout the full lifecycle, these solutions maximize track availability, reduce lifecycle costs, and ensure long‑term rail infrastructure performance based on the principles of the circular economy.

Rails are designed for extreme loads and a long service life. They can remain in service for up to 50 years on secondary lines and for up to 35 years on main lines. However, increasing traffic loads, higher availability requirements, and ambitious sustainability goals are changing the framework conditions. Sören Röhrig, Product Manager at voestalpine Railway Systems, talks about technological developments, and the path to green rail. 

The railway sector faces increasing demands: higher availability, more efficient maintenance, transparent data and close collaboration between operators and component suppliers. This is exactly where digital asset delivery from voestalpine Railway Systems comes into play. The zentrak CUSTOMER PORTAL adds a digital layer to the traditional physical delivery process. Assets are delivered not only physically but also digitally, enabling seamless lifecycle tracking.

The number of trains is constantly increasing — a trend that is set to continue. The question is: How can I create a highly available and robust overall system that does not require constant intervention? How does voestalpine Railway Systems use its track systems to not only keep up with growing demands but also stay one step ahead. Lukas Prettner, Head of Research and Development Track Systems, provides a comprehensive overview.