Modern for the meter gauge
The new R22RD-1 grading and compacting machine will go into operation in spring 2022.
Sersa Maschineller Gleisbau AG already operates two smaller R20RD-TYPE machines without a ballast silo and two larger R21RD-TYPE machines with a ballast silo. These grading and compacting machines were designed in close cooperation with the operators and implemented with the machine manufacturer Matisa (Crissier). Improvements and optimisations for the new R22RD-1 were discussed in advance in cooperation with the operators as well.
The Rhaetian Railway (RhB) network has rotating platforms several locations. This is where locomotives and track-laying machines can be turned in order to align the working direction with the respective operations. As the two R21RDs were a bit too long, the length of the new machine was adjusted so that turning on the rotating platforms is possible without any restrictions on the machine operations.
Like the B40UM-5 tamping machine, the new machine will be fitted with a magnetic rail brake for work above 60 per thousand and ZSI127 tension control. Machine operation has been completely revised and also simplified by the modern FACTO brake system. The workload is significantly optimised with modern video surveillance, touchscreen and joystick. The R22RD-1 will be able to properly level wood/steel sleepers and concrete sleepers. The Sersa is therefore working together with Matisa to develop a broom with an adjustable shape for meter gauge. Matisa's solution for standard gauge has been tried and tested on Sersa machines for several years. The silo also allows ballast to be picked up and unloaded in this machine, which ensures optimal ballast management.
The new R22RD-1 adds another modern high-performance machine to the fleet of graders and compactors for Switzerland's meter gauge railways. The machine is scheduled to enter service in March 2022, starting operational service in April 2022.
