GERMANY: Rail infrastructure contractor Spitzke is expanding its track maintenance machine fleet through a large-scale order placed with Plasser & Theurer.
The order includes a RM 900 high-capacity ballast cleaning machine for use during short track possessions and at night, with a tamping unit, sweeping unit and ballast supply system. Two eccentric screening units ensure a high working output and separate high-quality ballast from contaminants. A ballast reconditioning system resharpens rounded grain and restores the contact surfaces of the ballast needed to keep the track in a stable position.
There are also five MFS 120 SC material conveyor and hopper units which work in a formation with the ballast cleaning machine to handle material logistics directly on the track under construction. A slewing transfer conveyor allows bulk material to be unloaded from the side.
There is a Unimat 09-4x4/4S Dynamic universal tamping machine for working on plain-line tracks and turnouts, with modern measuring and stabilisation technology.
A USP 2010 SWS universal ballast profiling machine will distribute and profile the ballast on plain lines and turnouts, with work completed in the correct order in a single pass. A integrated hopper allows existing ballast to be reused where it is needed
Two MTW 100.216 self-propelled catenary installation and maintenance machines with an elevating work platform and crane will be used for a wide range of applications including installation, modernisation, inspection and maintenance of the overhead contact line.
Spitzke said the order announced on February 11 represents a targeted investment in the future and would enhance performance and increases worksite efficiency. ‘With our expanded technology fleet, we are ideally positioned to strengthen our position as a leading railway infrastructure company, a safe and modern employer and a reliable partner for Europe’s railways’, said CEO Mark Fisher.
