Wheel-rail conditioning to reduce train noise

The system applies a greasy substance between the rails and the train’s wheels. A train equipped with this system squeals and screeches less when it negotiates a curve.

Following successful tests by ProRail and Strukton between 2011 and 2014, 58 Dutch Railways (NS) trains will soon be equipped with a wheel-rail conditioning system to reduce noise. 

The system applies a greasy substance between the rails and the train’s wheels. A train equipped with this system squeals and screeches less when it negotiates a curve.

Leader in Europe
Many people detest the noise made by trains negotiating a curve, also known as curve noise. Wheel-rail conditioning ensures that this noise is reduced. ProRail and Strukton tested this system between 2011 and 2014 on two Connexxion trains on the Vallei Line, five Veolia trains in the south of the Netherlands, and eight NS trains that drive throughout the country. These tests were successful. So now, 58 trains will be equipped with such a wheel-rail conditioning system. This makes ProRail a leader in this area in Europe. Other European countries are closely monitoring this project. In addition, wheel-rail conditioning not only reduces noise, it also reduces wear and dirt adhesion.

Sharon, a ProRail system specialist, explains how the system works in a short video. Click here to view the video.

This message and the video were provided by ProRail.