DeltaSwitch

Meet the DeltaSwitch. In switches with a single point machine, there is a risk that the flangeway clearance does not comply with the standards. The result is that the back side of the open switch rail can be hit by the wheel flanges of a passing train. In this situation, DeltaSwitch can make an improvement in many cases.

DeltaSwitch puts an end to flange back contact in switches

Gauge(width of switch opening)

When the moving parts of a switch are hit by the inside of a train wheel, they bounce back and are repeatedly hit by the next wheels of the train. ProRail formulated special requirements for the dimensions of switches to prevent them from being hit by wheel flanges. This is referred to as the size of the free flangeway clearance. After a switch has been built into the railway, intensive use over time often causes a deviation in this clearance. Because it is not always exactly clear what causes this deviation and who is responsible for the repair costs, deviations in the flangeway clearance are a common problem for the entire railway sector.

DeltaSwitch: safer rails and significant cost savings

The installation of the DeltaSwitch eliminates the requirement for the lubrication of switch slide plates. Approximately one hour of installation and adjustment time is required per switch. In a weekend, in which some projects involve the installation or modification of ten to twenty switches, this can mean a saving of up to twenty hours. In addition, the installation of the DeltaSwitch substantially reduces the current draw from the switch machine, thus increasing the life of the machines.

Repairing deviations in the flangeway clearance is not easy. The degree of deviation is determined by the dimensions of the switch. Also, cold deformation of the switch rail does not always have the desired effect. Material deformations due to train load can also prevent the switch rail from reaching the required position. The installation of the DeltaSwitch prevents deviations in the flangeway clearance and prevents damage to the switch. In addition to avoiding failure costs, the application of the DeltaSwitch also saves time for the contractor. Approximately one hour of installation and adjustment time is required per switch. In a weekend, in which some projects involve the installation or modification of ten to twenty switches, this can mean a saving of up to twenty hours.

A safer switch

The DeltaSwitch system can be applied to any type of switch. Only one DeltaSwitch is required per switch rail. In addition to a safer switch, DeltaSwitch also ensures faster and more accurate adjustment of the switch parts. The DeltaSwitch is attached under the switch blade and, after it has been placed in position, is easily adjusted without special tools. Because DeltaSwitch lifts the blade much further, compared to other ’roller systems’, this adjustment is much less critical. Previously, a mechanic had to use special tools to check whether the lube-free roller system was mounted in the right place and height, with all the risks of deviations in the flangeway clearance as a result. This now belongs to the past.

Released product

The development and testing of the system took a total of four years. DeltaSwitch has already been extensively monitored in practice and the results are satisfactory. The product not only improves the correct setting of a switch, but also serves as a lubricant-free system. The DeltaSwitch now also meets the requirements set by ProRail for so-called lubrication-free switch systems and has been approved in accordance with SPC00341.

Installation

The DeltaSwitch system can be applied to any type of switch length and type (AREMA, EU, etc.). Only one DeltaSwitch is required per switch blade for a total of two per turnout. In addition to a safer switch, DeltaSwitch also ensures faster and more accurate adjustment of the switch parts. The DeltaSwitch is attached under the switch blade and, after it has been placed in position, is easily adjusted without special tools. Because DeltaSwitch lifts the blade much further, compared to other ‘lube-free constructions’, this adjustment is much less critical. Previously, a guideway technician had to use special tools to check whether the lube-free construction was mounted in the right place and height, with all the risks of deviations in the flangeway gap. This is now no longer necessary.

Are you also interested in the DeltaSwitch? Order it now in our our webshop. Or contact Product Manager Daniël Poll Jonker for more information.

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