ÜSTRA Hanoversche Verkehrsbetriebe AG presented its latest rail cleaner at this year's Mobility Event: Vehicle “330“, developed and manufactured by ZWEIWEG International GmbH & Co. KG.
The special vehicle complements ÜSTRA's existing fleet and was designed specifically for cleaning the rail grooves in the light rail network. As the latest addition to its series, the "330" rail cleaner combines robust two-way technology with state-of-the-art cleaning equipment – a further contribution to the safety and reliability of local transport in Hanover.
"Hello, I am ÜSTRA's newest rail cleaner – or as I am known internally: 330," says the introductory clip with which ÜSTRA has presented its new vehicle. However, behind the charming speech lies precise engineering work: The 18-tonne, 8-metre-long rail cleaner is equipped with a 4,000-litre fresh water tank and operates at up to 1,000 bar high pressure to remove stubborn dirt from the rail groove. The loosened dirt is then sucked up – an important step in minimising the risk of derailment.
The road-rail vehicle can be moved both on the road and on the rails. This allows it to be used flexibly throughout the network and supports ÜSTRA with night-time cleaning when light rail operations are suspended.
"We are delighted that ÜSTRA presented the new vehicle in such an impressive way at the Mobility Event," says Thorsten Schiebler, plant manager at ZAGRO Bahn- und Baumaschinen GmbH in Sehnde. "The combination of technical performance, safety and practical everyday usability demonstrates what ZWEIWEG stands for – practical technology for daily use on two tracks."
With the new "330" rail cleaner, ÜSTRA is not only showcasing its modern vehicle fleet, but also the importance of preventive track maintenance for safe, sustainable local transport in Hanover.
Image credits: © ÜSTRA / Martin Bargiel
