InnoTrans 2018 – presentation on vibration protection in urban environments

Buers (Austria), Berlin (Germany): In his presentation at the Getzner Werkstoffe stand at InnoTrans, Product Manager Stefan Vonbun explained the possibilities of subsequently installing vibration protection during track renovation work. He illustrated the cost-benefit arguments for operators using the practical example of the airport railway link in Krakow, Poland.

It is increasingly common today for vibration protection to be subsequently installed during track renovation work. At Getzner’s main stand at InnoTrans on 19/09/2018, Stefan Vonbun, Product Manager for Getzner’s railway division, explained how Getzner’s product range enables effective vibration protection in urban environments. ‘Installing cost-effective vibration protection during railway line renovation work has a positive impact in a number of different ways. Operators benefit from a higher level of acceptance of their railway line, and nearby buildings are protected from vibrations. Residents enjoy greater peace and quiet, and living and working near railway lines is more comfortable. That means plots of land can be used in a wider variety of ways, and property prices typically go up in such areas,’ notes Stefan Vonbun.

Convincing cost-benefit arguments
The presentation paid particular attention to how under sleeper pads can be installed during railway line renovation work and the advantages for operators. Using the example of the airport railway link in Krakow, Poland, Stefan Vonbun also shed light on the effectiveness of under sleeper pads in urban environments. That railway line – which was modernised in 2015 – connects Krakow city centre with the airport. Stefan Vonbun put forward the results of externally performed effectiveness measurements to quantify the reduction in vibration achieved using under sleeper pads. His presentation also addressed the effects of that measure on the long-term qualities of the railway superstructure.

At InnoTrans, Getzner focused on the current topics of ballast protection and the reduction of maintenance costs by using under sleeper pads – a product range which was recently extensively tested according to the new 16730 European Standard. Alongside its proven products, under ballast mats, mass-spring systems and solutions to optimise turnouts and transition zones, this year for the first time the emphasis was also on Getzner’s specialist service range, including effectiveness forecasts, installation plans and assistance with the installation of vibration protection solutions. The trade fair stand featured dedicated display islands for ballast protection, vibration protection and services. Visitors to the trade fair also had the chance to experience vibrations for themselves as part of an interactive display at the stand featuring a ‘vibrating floor’ and ‘shaker model’. Interesting insights into the world of vibration protection were also provided by interactive touchscreens, product samples and exhibits, such as an original sleeper that had been installed with under sleeper pads following many years in use.