vario
Modular System for Safe Service Crossings
vario is a modular service crossing for railway stations, shunting facilities and industrial tracks. The system combines an elastic rubber support panel with an integrated galvanized steel grid. This creates a slip-resistant walking and driving surface that allows water and snow to pass through freely. Like the proven pede system, vario is designed for personnel using tool and luggage trolleys and can also be driven over by emergency vehicles when required.
Rubber and Steel: A Smart Combination
The elastic rubber panel absorbs movements in the track, while the galvanized steel grid provides a stable, permeable surface. The length and slope can be adjusted in precise 10 mm increments to suit the respective track geometry. This allows vario to be combined with common rail and sleeper types, regardless of manufacturer.
- Slip-resistant walking and driving surface
- Water- and snow-permeable steel grid
- Length and slope adjustable in 10 mm increments
- Flush outer panels, also available as access ramps
- Compatible with common rail and sleeper types
- Suitable for use with tool and luggage trolleys
References
vario Service Crossings Installed Across 16 Tracks in Bern
Applications at Railway Stations, Shunting Facilities and Industrial Tracks
vario was developed for service routes where personnel need to cross tracks regularly and safely. The modular design allows the inner and outer panels, intermediate track sections and access ramps to be adapted to different installation conditions. Each module is 1,200 mm wide and can be combined with additional modules to create longer crossings.
At a major project for Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) in Bern, this approach was used to create service crossings spanning a total of 16 tracks in a stabling yard.
Easy Maintenance and Lifecycle Cost Efficiency
The steel grid can be easily removed from the rubber panel without dismantling the entire service crossing. Robust coarse-thread screws allow repeated removal and refitting of the components, while rail hooks and the proven STRAIL tensioning system secure the panels in the track.
If a component becomes damaged after prolonged use, the grid and rubber panel can be replaced individually without replacing the entire crossing. Together with short track possessions, this helps reduce lifecycle costs.
Installation is also designed for short track possessions: under normal conditions, a fully operational vario service crossing can generally be installed in around 30 minutes.
