Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) has ordered two ROREXS rail exchange systems from German-based maufacturer Robel Bahnbaumaschinen, one for the delivery of 50 rails and one for the delivery and recovery of 32 rails of 165 m length each.
Robel is working in close collaboration with the Australian-based wagon manufacturer Rail First Asset Management, which is providing 36 specially adapted container flat wagons onto which ROBEL is going to install the specialist on-board equipment.
The company is using the latest technology in rail clamping, roller support gates and chute system, which integrates full automation and remote control.
This eliminates working at height and close proximity to moving rail, and increases production rates whilst maintaining optimum rail condition at all times during the process.
ARTC asset strategy and national plant general manager Clinton Crump said re-railing was a critical activity delivering safety and reliability outcomes on the corporation’s rail network.
“The proposed procurement of new rail rakes from Robel and Rail First provides value for money, continuity of supply and critically offers the safest available solution to support the distribution of rail required for ARTC’s sustaining rerailing program,” he said.
Robel systems and vehicles sales director Michael Seeleithner said the company was proud to be part of the0 tripartite agreement with ARTC and Rail First.
“By introducing our latest technology for rail delivery and recovery, we aim to support ARTC in optimising safety, efficiency and quality in the management of rail handling across the Australian network,” he said.
The new transport systems will start delivery of new rail from Bathurst and Port Augusta rail welding depots and scrap rail recovery throughout the 8500km ARTC standard gauge network in spring, 2025.