Rail web dampers
Combating noise before it occurs
This absorber, also known as a rail web damper, reduces vibration through its mass, thereby decreasing sound emission. The system is an effective way to combat noise before it occurs. One damper element is installed on each side of the rail web between two fastenings, within the sleeper bay. The rail web dampers do not need to be removed for track maintenance, such as tamping, or for rail grinding.
Sound control directly at the source
The rail web damper reduces noise generated directly at the point of contact between the wheel and rail. The elements are attached to the rail web and help to dampen noise emissions where they are generated.
- Damper elements mounted on the rail web
- Durable, robust and low-maintenance
- Its ultra-slim design allows maintenance—even on curves—with a track tamping machine
- No removal required during standard track maintenance
- Inspection and surveying work are not affected or obstructed
References
Complete noise protection solution with the combined STRAILwave product range for reactivated tracks
After 45 years of closure, Nordhorn was reconnected to passenger transport. In order to protect local residents and recreational areas along the reactivated line, Bentheimer Eisenbahn AG opted for a combination of three STRAILwave noise protection products: rail web dampers, IP and the mSW 360 mini noise barrier. Planning, organization and installation were successfully completed in just a few weeks.
First pilot installation of the mSW 1250 – complemented by proven rail web dampers
In Bispingen, Germany, the first pilot installation of the mSW 1250 — combined with our rail web dampers — demonstrated that highly effective noise protection is achievable even at a height of just 1.25 m
Noise reduction in the track
The rail web damper is an effective solution for active noise reduction directly within the track cross-section, without altering the rail, ballast, or track superstructure. Especially on main lines, in curves, and in noise-sensitive areas, the system helps reduce rolling noise generated at the wheel-rail contact. Its installation between the rail fastenings preserves the track geometry entirely, providing a clear advantage for both new construction projects and retrofitting existing high-traffic lines.
Maintenance-free noise protection for continuously trafficked lines
The rail web dampers are designed to remain in place during routine maintenance, including tamping, surveying, or rail grinding. This saves time and minimizes disruption to operations. The robust rubber construction is durable, resistant to weather and vibration, and stays reliably in position even under heavy track usage. This makes the system ideal for railway operators seeking effective noise control with minimal maintenance effort.