core sector communique

Goods transfer of up to 40 t

"New" Y-steel sleeper for new markets

ThyssenKrupp GfT Gleistechnik GmbH has again broadened its line-up of permanent way products. With the aid of engineering modifications, this track construction specialist has made its Y-steel sleepers even more effective. The "new" Y-steel sleeper is intended, in particular, for the heavy haulage of commodities and is designed for axle loads of up to 41 t. In Germany, for example, Y-sleepers are currently mostly designed for loads of up to 22.5 t. "In upgrading the Y-steel sleeper we intend to tap and spread into new markets. It is seen as having vast potential, especially in the Americas, in Australia, and Africa," says Mario Serafidis, Director International Sales at ThyssenKrupp GfT Gleistechnik.

In order to rigorously test the new heavy-load sleeper trials were conducted in Brazil and the United States. "The challenge was to adapt the design in such a way that it would accept heavy loads and thus enable us to position ourselves more competitively in the marked for commodity haulage," adds Serafidis.

Once the tests have been successfully completed, the new Y-steel sleeper will be locally produced in the target markets of the Americas, Australia, and Africa and adapted to individual customer needs. "We are very confident of success with the new Y-steel sleeper," says Serafidis. This Essen-based company is targeting a market share of over 30 percent for the steel sleepers used in heavy-haul traffic.

The "new" Y-steel sleeper is making its debut at InnoTrans, International Trade Fair for Transport Technology, held from September 21 to 24 in Berlin. Other innovative products for the rail infrastructure sector will be displayed on the company's fair stand 107 in hall 26.

About ThyssenKrupp GfT Gleistechnik
ThyssenKrupp GfT Gleistechnik GmbH, Essen, Germany, ranks among the worldwide leading suppliers of railway equipment systems with special emphasis on classical products such as new and used rails, sleepers, points, rail fasteners for all types of permanent-way systems. Rounding off the range are rolling stock and its refurbishment, wagons and their accessories, and a full range of services. Engineering and supplying complete rail and point systems are among the specialties of ThyssenKrupp GfT Gleistechnik.