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World-first agreement for more sustainable railway electrification
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A welding robot that can repair defects in rails and switches, that is the future Strukton is working on together with other parties. This innovative solution is an initiative by Robel, ProRail, VolkerRail and Strukton. The robot works more consistently than manual welding and takes heavy manual work off the hands of welders, reducing their physical strain. This is an important development within the rail sector.
The rail sector is facing major challenges in achieving its future goals. This also means that we are focusing on digitisation and robotisation, in order to reduce manual work and further improve quality. This is also a solution that responds to the shortage of skilled workers, including welders, and to reduce night work.
The welding robot is one such innovation. What makes it special is the consistent quality it delivers. Where manual welding can vary, the robot always ensures the same, high result. This is good for the safety and sustainability of the railway. In the future, the welding robot will offer a complete solution: from detecting defects, milling and welding to precise grinding.
The arrival of this welding robot is a direct answer to an important operational issue: finding sufficiently qualified welders. Fewer and fewer people are opting for this specialized work, mainly because it often has to be done at night. This robot offers a solution to this.
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An important step towards a future in which reliability and innovation come together.
Automation is important for the future of rail. The welding robot is a first step towards more automation in track maintenance. If the welding robot is used successfully, it can be used in many places in the Netherlands. With this, Strukton, together with Robel, ProRail and VolkerRail, is taking an important step towards a future in which reliability and innovation come together.
Photo credits: Robel