Multiple projects, not enough personnel, high work pressure, and short maintenance periods. These have been the common challenges faced by the Dutch railway sector and those involved for many years. That is why, during the replacement of 83 EBI-switches, the Mobile Track Service (MBS) of voestalpine Turnout Technology Netherlands assisted the contractor in exchanging these point machines. Apart from the delivery of the new WBN NSE-point machines for this project, we also provided the accompanying rods, sleepers, and additional small items. After reconstructing the machines, our MBS colleagues adjusted the new equipment conform specifications and disposed of the old EBI-switch point machines. In short, a complete service package. Or in a more suitable term: ‘servitization’.
Even before the project had been awarded, BAM Rail’s experts and our MBS specialists joined forces to establish how to optimally organize this project. Because the mechanics of the MBS have the proper expertise, experience in track work, and speak the same ‘language’, BAM Rail decided to purchase both the materials and the services provided by MBS from voestalpine. The combination of delivery of qualitative high-standard products according to a specific logistics project plan and the use of the Mobile Track Service for the execution of the necessary conversion, adjustment, and disposal activities appeared to be the key to success.
The first reconstruction was quite the challenge, since it was the double slip complex in Eindhoven. . What makes this structure unique is that it consists of two turnouts whose fronts are positioned against each other. The years of experience with these types of challenging situations that our MBS-specialists brought with them, was put to good use.
The new voestalpine Turnout Technology Netherlands NSE-point machines were according to the logistics plan delivered at the construction site prior to the start of the activities. This ensured that there would be no inconvenience for the immediate vicinity with the conversion activities starting straight away. Before the old point machines could be thoroughly dismantled and de-assembled, BAM Rail’s contractor in charge made absolutely sure that all safety measures were taken. The contractor then positioned the new sleepers and point machines on the rails with the aid of a railway crane, after which our MBS-mechanics connected them in accordance with all specifications.
Thanks to the intensive and pleasant cooperation with the contractor during the pre-phase of the project, we were able to converse the first point machines within six hours. This is a tremendous decrease in construction time, which is a huge benefit given the fact that the decommissioning blocks are getting increasingly shorter. Project Manager Patrick Schut of BAM Rail:
“By combining the expertise from both BAM and MBS, the preparation and execution were done in a very professional matter, to which MBS deserve a compliment for the services provided. As main contractor, we were extremely satisfied with how we successfully handled this project."
We can do so much more! Think of conversing expansion joints, railway bridges, level crossing barriers, frogs or even the newest recyclable plastic cable troughs. We are able to transport large components on our special trailer, whereas other materials will be transported in our service vans.
Are you in need of some know-how and assistance in an upcoming project? Contact our Account Manager Tamara Gerards-Tabak to discuss what our reconstruction service could do for you.