Algol Technics to supply brake systems for new car transport wagons

Algol Technics will supply brake systems for fifteen new car transport wagons
that have been ordered by Finnish Railways (VR Group) from the Otanmäki factory
of the Talgo Company. The contract includes an option for brake systems for
fifteen additional wagons. The brake systems will be manufactured by
Knorr-Bremse AG of Germany, with whom Algol has co-operated in the Finnish
market since 1922.

The new car transport wagons represent a totally new type for Finnish Railways.
They are fully enclosed and highly equipped, with flat floors on two levels.
The new wagons have an operating speed of 160 km/h. The wagons can be coupled
directly to IC passenger wagons, which share the same dimensions and styling.
The brake systems of the two wagon types are also synchonised.

The brake systems on the new wagons are modular units that are controlled by
microprocessors and offer massive braking power. The high-technology solutions
employed by the new brake systems are being used on non-passenger wagons for
the first time on Finnish railways. The brake systems meet all international
technical standards and safety norms for fast trains.

Sales Manager Mikael Karlsson at Algol Technics emphasises particularly the
safety aspects of the new brake systems, as well as their overall functionality
in Finland´s tough climate conditions. The technology that has been employed is
similar to the diaphragm type cylinders used in cars. Accordingly, the compact
design requires low maintenance and offers excellent efficiency. The brake
systems feature an anti-skid control unit that is connected to the train´s
microprocessor system. This monitors the system constantly when in use and
pinpoints even the smallest deviations. The actual braking process can also be
activated automatically via the train´s own monitoring system (automatic
traincontrol ATC).

Deliveries will take place in 2004 and 2005. In addition to the new brake
systems, the order from Algol Technics also includes a range of accessories and
equipment from other manufacturers.

« Back