The construction and maintenance of railways in challenging environments requires innovative solutions that guarantee the lifespan and reliability of the track. In environments with high humidity, limited ventilation, and a salty atmosphere, rails tracks are quickly affected. It is precisely under these conditions that our rubber coating proves its strength. In 2022, together with our sister company voestalpine Rail Technology, we supplied rails to Linea Figueras Perpignan (LFP) for use in the Perthus Tunnel between France and Spain, running through the Pyrenees. Three years later, our inspection confirmed that the coated rails are meeting the expected performance. 

Tailor-made logistics for a complex puzzle 

During the 2022 delivery, we faced a complex logistical puzzle. The customer needed our solution in different lengths and at specific locations in the tunnel. Since only the corrosion-sensitive sections were fitted with rubber-coated rails, we opted for tailor-made logistics, fully customized to the customer’s needs and delivered on our own flat wagons, and unloaded in the tunnel using voestalpine Rail Technology’s rail putler. 

On-site inspection 

During the inspection, together with the LFP team, we examined the longest sections (220 meters) of our delivery. The results were convincing. The inspection confirmed that the rails are completely free of corrosion and are performing exactly as expected. The LFP team was positive about the durability and reliability of our solution. Their feedback helps us further optimize future projects. 

Proven in France and Spain

The outcomes show that our rubber coating provides long-term protection even in the most corrosive environments. The coating is developed to protect rails against moisture, salts, and acids, and serves as insulation against stray currents. This significantly extends the lifespan, and reducing maintenance costs. Thanks to its application in station areas, bridges, level crossings, and tunnels such as the Perthus Tunnel and the Eurotunnel, but also in the Hemtunnel in the Netherlands, the added value of Rubbercoat is clearly visible in diverse environments. 

Rubbercoat as a sustainable solution 

The inspection visit in the Perthus Tunnel confirms that rubber coated rail tracks retain their quality even after years of intensive use. In a few years, we will carry out another inspection to further monitor performance, with a view to the expected 15-year lifespan of the rails in this tunnel. This underlines our mission to develop innovative solutions that contribute to a safe, sustainable, and available rail network. 

Would you like to know what our Rubbercoat rail tracks can do for your project? Feel free to contact Eric Brink, Business Unit Manager Rail Services.