Railtex and Infrarail 2021 Show Review by RBD Media

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Railtex 2021 Show Guide railbusinessdaily.com

Show review

I natirlot d R e xu/cItni of rna R a i l

Welcome to railbusinessdaily.com’s Railtex/Infrarail 2021 Show Review F

or the first time in almost 18 months, Birmingham’s NEC hosted the UK’s premier ultimate exhibitions of railway technology and services, welcoming over 200 exhibiting organisations and thousands of visitors for three days of networking, education and product demonstrations. An array of technologies and innovations ranging from total railway systems to the smallest specialised components were on display at the first-ever co-located event, which brought together two of the industry’s most anticipated events under one roof. Beyond the main exhibition was a packed and engaging supporting programme with keynote speakers from rail leaders, plus technical seminars, project updates and discussion forums. With the impact of the Coronavirus pandemic felt across the entire industry, it was fantastic to take part in the first live exhibition since 2019 and to see so many new and familiar faces taking part in a memorable show. Railtex/Infrarail 2021 was an opportunity for the UK rail industry to show its strength in the face of adversity and remind people that despite the challenging last two years, there is much to be optimistic about, with some huge new projects progressing and a plan for a new public body, Great British Railways (GBR), which will transform the way our railways and ticketing is managed. For railbusinessdaily, Railtex/Infrarail 2021 was an excellent opportunity to meet with our customers and readers in person, to discuss how we can help them achieve their goals and share our successes together. We had a great time meeting everyone, particularly at our drinks reception on the Wednesday evening! I hope you enjoy reading this show review and if you’d like to learn more about the exhibiting companies and industry news and updates in general, subscribe to our daily newsletter at: news.railbusinessdaily.com Best wishes,

Da vid

David McLoughlin Chief Executive Business Daily Group (incorporating: RBD Publications and railbusinessdaily.com)

Railtex/ Infrarail 2021 was an opportunity for the UK rail industry to show its strength in the face of adversity

RailDirector magazine is part of the Business Daily Group of companies, which includes the hugely popular railbusinessdaily.com. We deliver more than 70 stories a week to +50,000 rail industry professionals who now subscribe to our 7am daily newsletter. Please subscribe and encourage your colleagues and team members to do the same. It’s free and it’s easy: www.railbusinessdaily.com. This is the very best way to keep abreast of what is happening on Britain’s railways. There is a digital copy of RailDirector on our website.

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Contents Big Bear Plastic Products Ltd 4 QuEST Global, 5 OMICRON 5 Rail Forum Midlands 6 Baltica 6 Blocksil Ltd 7 FirstClass Safety & Control Ltd. 8 Petzl UK 9 Royal British Legion Industries 9 Salamander Fabrications 10 Frequentis, 10 GDS Technology (GDS) 11 Green Furniture Concept 12 Infinitive Group 13 Klauke UK Ltd 13 Thales UK 14 KM Tools 14 Acorel 15 Hitachi 16 Kwik-Step Ltd 17 Market Infra 17 Marshalls Civils and Drainage 18 Mechan Ltd, 18 Leo Workwear 19 Murphy Geospatial 20 Motor Scubber UK 21 Nubold Group Ltd 21 OGAB Ltd 22 Phoenix Dynamics 22 Network Certification Body (NCB) 23 Pandrol (Vortok) 24 Pennant International 25 Permanent Way Institution (PWI) 25 Polyco Heathline 26 Project Control Tools (PCT) 26 Roxtec 27 Schweizer Electronic 28 Portaramp UK 29 Radionika Ltd 29 The Railway Benefit Fund 30 RISQS 30 railbusinessdaily.com

PSV Glass and Glazing 31 SEED Architects 32 Red Training 33 Scott Parnell 33 HARTING 34 JMS Transformers 34 Stanley Black & Decker 35 Zonegreen 36 Railway Industry Association (RIA 37 Hoppecke Industries 37 Hird Rail and Trough Tec Systems 38 ITH Bolting Technology 38 Hikvision UK & Ireland 39 Seksui Chemicals 40 SET Ltd 40 Sulzar 41 Shoal Group’s Cablecraft and FS Cables 41 British Steel 42 Hydram Engineering 42 Phoenix Contac 43 Washington Metalworks 43 Snap-on 44 Anderton Concrete 44 Corex Honeycomb and Bespoke Composite Panels 45 The Crown Group 45 MPI Recruitment 46 Alstom 47 Sabre Rail 47 Goldwing Cable 48 Hilti, 48 The TenBroeke Group 49 Ixthus Instrumentation 49 Cleansoft 50 dormakaba’s UK 50 Design & Analysis Ltd 51 SeSys 51 Schaltbau, experts in train HVAC 52 | 3

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Innovative lightweight thermoplastic components

ig Bear Plastic Products Ltd exhibited its new capabilities in design, development, prototyping and production of lightweight rail interiors, using vacuum-forming and compression-moulding technology. With access to new EN45545-2 compliant thermoplastic materials, Big Bear staff demonstrated to visitors at stand J80 how these materials are ideal for manufacturing lightweight interior rail components, such as seating and window surround panels. Showing a significant weight and cost saving against GRP and Aluminium, these materials can be colour matched in low minimum order quantities so there is no need for secondary operations such as painting.

New lightweight moulded rail interiors, in certified EN45545 material. Ideal for seating and interior panels, material is lightweight, recyclable, colour matched; no need for painting! A stylish and cost effective alternative to metal and GRP.

Big Bear is a privately owned, British manufacturer based in the West Midlands. Please contact us to discuss your requirements

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+44 (0) 1905 792 500 EmmaH@big-bear.co.uk bigbearplastics.com

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Innovative engineering partners QuEST Global make show debut

tand B38 hosted QuEST Global, a multinational rail manufacturer that supports OEMs to improve capability, capacity and cost. QuEST drives business outcomes for customers by using digital initiatives including: design system integration, digital twin, immersive training, predictive maintenance, and safety surveillance. As a global engineering expert, QuEST helps create the frontier for safer, cleaner, reliable and more economical rail journeys. The company was making its first ever appearance at Railtex/ Infrarail, and at its stand the company showcased its wide range of products and services, including automatic train control, communications systems and equipment, signalling/train control systems, computer hardware and software, management systems. QuEST Global’s General Manager Julian Gill also hosted a discussion at the show’s Seminar Theatre, which highlighted how innovative partnership working can extend customers’ engineering capabilities.

Innovations in railway power system testing

lobal electronics specialist OMICRON exhibited at stand G48, showcasing its range of innovative testing and diagnostic solutions for electrical and power testing within the rail industry. The OMICRON product range exhibited at Railtex/Infrarail 2021 included test solutions for power transformers, circuit breakers, rotating machines and cable systems to test and calibration equipment for protection relays, energy meters, transducers. Its monitoring solutions also enable in-service monitoring of high-voltage assets such as generators, motors and cables. The application of OMICRON products allows users to assess the condition of the primary and secondary equipment on their systems with complete confidence. OMICRON’s expertise spans services in the areas of consulting, commissioning, testing, diagnosis and training.

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Building strong industry connections

ail Forum Midlands, the national trade association for rail suppliers, exhibited at stand H51, welcoming new and existing members, VIP guests, intermediaries and stakeholders throughout the three days. With members spanning the whole rail industry from global corporations to micro SMEs, asset owners to manufacturers, digital solutions providers to passenger and freight operators, RFM was please to host seven members on its stand (members TBC) at Railtex/ Infrarail. The Forum was also delighted to announce its 296th member during the show, Infinitive Group, welcomed by Chairman Paul Robinson and President Colin Walton. RFM is unique in its approach to supporting members, with dedicated account management support, providing short to medium term practical events programmes to help companies engage with their customers.

Suppliers sought for ‘Baltic infrastructure project of the century’

t stand R70, Rail Baltica was in attendance to inform suppliers of the many procurement and other partnership opportunities available on the megaproject that is aiming to become a catalyst for multimodal integration in the Baltics and beyond. The Rail Baltica project is a greenfield rail infrastructure project with the goal to integrate the Baltic States into the European rail network. The line will be fully electrified meaning it is emissionfree and will connect passenger and freight links across the Baltic nations. The project incorporates five European Union countries – Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia and Finland. Construction is underway. When complete, it will connect the cities of Helsinki, Tallinn,Pärnu,Riga,Panevežys,Kaunas,Vilniusand Warsaw. Rail Baltica also featured on Railtex/Infrarail’s supporting programme, with Andy Billington, the project’s Innovation and Sustainability Specialist hosting a conference at the Unlocking Innovation Zone on Tuesday 7th September. 6 |

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The science of innovative paint and coating technology

xhibiting at stand N81, Blocksil Ltd showcased its award-winning coating innovations, with visitors learning about its high-performance graphene enhanced corrosion resistant coating for trackside buildings and its intumescent coating which holds back extreme heat and extinguishes fire. There was also information about Blocksil’s anti-graffiti coatings, graffiti removal gel and range of nano coatings and polishes. Network Rail has used Blocksil’s graphene coating for corrosion resistance on a number of its trackside Remote Electrical Boxes. These REBs have within them all the electrical and electronic equipment needed to manage and run the signals and points. Long-term corrosion-resistant performance is essential as there is a high cost involved in gaining access to these cabinets. Plus, tight budget constraints mean that long term solutions are preferred over quick fixes. And as Blocksil offers a 25-year product warranty on the REB coating, lifetime costs are also reduced..

GR APHENE The Future in Corrosion Technology

11,800 hours salt spray

EN45545 R7 HL3

Extended product warranty

Unique Graphene enhanced corrosion resistant coatings only from Blocksil for the long term protection of assets CONTACT US TODAY | blocksil.co.uk | 01543 887840 | info@blocksil.co.uk

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First Class Safety Solutions for Rail Depots

tand G14 welcomed Essex-based FirstClass Safety & Control, a safety control system specialist firm with a 20-year history of supplying safety control systems to the rail industry. The firm specialises in Rail Depot Protection Systems, alongside Rail Depot Control Systems and Locally Operated Points Systems (LOPS). This range of products means that First Class Safety can provide depot operators with fully integrated safety systems and all with SIL 2 level safety certified as standard. The FirstClass Safety & Control Depot Protection System (DPS) and Depot Control System (DCS) are integrated safety systems suitable for any depot looking for a new system or to upgrade older systems. FirstClass says the systems draw upon proven off-the-shelf hardware and software both of which come highly recommended within the industry which are thus extremely flexible, scalable, and reliable.

A Fresh Approach to Depot Safety and Control • Depot Protection Systems (DPS) • Depot Control Systems (DCS) • Combined DPS/DCS • Locally Operated Points Systems (LOPS) • SIL 2 Rated Systems as Standard

01621 743 743 info@firstclass-safety-control.co.uk

www.FirstClass-Safety-Control.co.uk

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Vertical safety solutions for rail on display at Railtex/Infrarail

tand G07 welcomed Petzl UK Agency, a developer of innovative tools that enable progression, position and protection in vertical environments, as well as headlamps to lighten the dark. Since the development of the first rope ascenders and descenders, Petzl has been at the forefront of change and new techniques. Petzl’s innovations have allowed equipment to evolve and practices to be reinvented, with more than 700 patents registered since 1970. At Railtex/Infrarail 2021 Petzl introduced its range of fall arrest and lighting equipment for rail professionals. Petzl have a long history of innovative tools that enable progression, position and protection in vertical environments, as well as headlamps to light your way in the dark. Since the development of the first rope ascenders and descenders, Petzl has been at the forefront of change and new techniques in working at height and hands free lighting. Petzl’s innovations have allowed equipment to evolve and practices to be reinvented, with more than 700 patents registered since 1970.. .

Providing life-changing employment opportunities in rail

oyal British Legion Industries, the UK’s leading social enterprise signage maker took to stand G02 to exhibit its innovative signage for organisations across both public and private sectors: from flagship infrastructure projects to international brands and local business. 70% of the RBLI team is made up of veterans from the Armed Forces or civilians with a physical or mental disability. The organisation utilises state-of-the-art printing and graphics technology to craft a diversity of Rail signage applications on a range of materials, all made to ISO 9001. RBLI creates social value for society at large and provides life-transforming employment opportunities. At Railtex/Infrarail 2021, the social enterprise networked with businesses looking to meet the social value criteria requirements of Network Rail, Highways England and other infrastructure organisations, helping them improve their sustainability and give back to society. railbusinessdaily.com

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A one-stop solution for sheet metal manufacturing

o-exhibiting at Rail Forum Midlands’ stand H51, Sheet metal manufacturer Salamander Fabrications was in attendance to build its presence in the rail sector. Salamander Fabrications has more than 50 years’ experience in the sheet metal industry producing precision products for the rail industry. It specialises in aluminium sheet metal, which is popular due for its versatility and excellent resistance to corrosion. Aluminium is strong, light and commonly used in light fabrication projects. The firm prides itself on offering a fast turnround, excellent service and precisely engineered products. Its services include Solidworks 3D CAD/CAM design, Laser cutting, CNC Punching, Manual Press Brake Folding, Automated Panel Bending, Mig & Tig Welding, Electro Mechanical Assembly, Powder Coating & Finishing, all delivered from its one-stop facility in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire.

Enabling safe operations 24/7

t stand G06 was Frequentis, the international supplier of communication and information systems for control centres with safety-critical tasks. Frequentis’ human-centred design process helps to secure a safe, high performance, and resilient working environment for operators and controllers. The primary goal of a control centre is to ensure the protection of individuals and goods from harm. Therefore, appropriate solutions are particularly important for customers working in safety-relevant sectors. Customers’ needs now include efficiency requests and the necessity to quickly adapt to continually changing conditions; this results in an increased demand for integrated solutions. Frequentis has a proven track record in assisting multiple operators to keep railways moving worldwide by realising the benefits of efficient and effective incident and crisis management with its control centre solutions.

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Cutting edge displays of the future

DS Technology (GDS) is the UK arm of GDS Group, which delivers digital display solutions to a range of sectors worldwide including rail, air, DOOH, retail and medical. These can display adverts or deliver all-important passenger information messages to passengers. The team, at stand L70, was speaking to a wide range of potential customers at the exhibition, including train operating companies. The GDS team said it was an exhibition which exceeded expectations, with the chance to network with the rail industry in a way which had simply not been possible since 2019. In their conversations, they discussed the industry lowest Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) of their display products, deep diagnostic capabilities and flexible uses which the products can provide.

GDS TECHNOLOGY

Innovative, Smart and Sustainable Display Solutions for Transportation ӹ

Rail & Bus Onboard Displays

Smart Cities

Installation

PIDS & CIS Screens

Maintenance

Advertising

Turnkey Solutions

Wayfinding

+44 1793 498020 gdstechnology.co.uk sales@gdstechnology.co.uk

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Environmentally - focussed seating and lighting solutions for public spaces

any will have seen Green Furniture Concept’s work in transportation hubs and retail facilities. It creates public space interiors, bringing sustainable seating and lighting design to the core of urban placemaking. It works closely with architects, facility managers (project owners) and industry stakeholders to create customised interiors. Staff explained to people attending Railtex/Infrarail that the business has become internationally recognised as pioneers of sustainable design. They added that at the core of their business model was a desire to make a worldpositive impact.

greenfc.com

Nature as designer: Biophilic design in modern placemaking

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Intelligent solutions for the future of mobility

tand J57 welcomed to Infinitive Group to share its innovative systems engineering and management technology at Railtex/ Infrarail’s Eagle Lab area. Founded around four pillars – engineering and technology, management and advisory, research and development, and sales and supply, the Group is structured to carefully meet all client needs. Recently, it entered into a global exclusive rights deal with McLaren Applied. Using its leading-edge knowhow, Infinitive Group plans to evolve McLaren Applied’s Sensa system, finely tuning it with its IRRIS technology platform. The objective is to gather a granular level of data from seat reservations and subsequent seat occupancy. Other systems in the company’s portfolio and on demonstration at Railtex/Infrarail included the advanced analytics and data visualisation system Artemis, which can check the condition of train systems, hybrid data management platform Pithoi, and secure data harvesting and acquisition solution Ramus. .

The right tools for the job

t stand M11, Klauke UK Ltd, manufacturer of high quality tools, testing and measuring devices, as well as power connecting materials for electrical engineering applications. Since being founded in Remscheid, Germany in 1879, Klauke has evolved from a manufacturer of high-quality pliers for the watchmaker trade to an international organisation. Today as part of Emerson, the firm develops, manufactures and distributes tools, testing and measuring devices, as well as power cable connecting materials for electrical engineering applications. The firm’s range includes the ASSG cutting device, a cable cutting tool complete with a remote control and a 10 m safety hydraulic hose to ensure maximum safety, and the SG cable lugs, special tubular cable lugs, which have a much narrower flange that is easily compatible with the switch gear connection. .

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Driving a digital approach towards safe rail travel

tand G57 welcomed Thales UK Ltd, a global technology leader in the Aerospace, Transportation, Defence and Security markets. With a team of 30,000 engineers and researchers, the company has a unique capability to design, develop and deploy equipment, systems and services that meet the most complex security requirements. At this year’s exhibition, Thales UK showcased a range of technologies from across the company’s portfolio of mainline, urban and connected mobility solutions. Examples included its Advanced Passenger Information System (APIS), our Connected Driver Advisory System (CDAS) and Seltrac G8, which is Thales’s latest generation of CBTC signalling solution for urban rail. Thales’ Driver Advisory System (C-DAS), known as GreenSpeed™, is an advanced Driver Advisory System developed according to industry standards, such as SFERA, to favour interoperability while laying down stepping stones for Autonomous Train Operations (ATO).

Thales UK’s Vice President for Mainline Rail, David Palmer, was also a guest speaker at the show’s Seminar Theatre, delivering an address on Shaping the future of the digital railway,

and discussed the role technology can play in delivering a more reliable, resilient and low-cost railway that can accelerate a modal shift to integrated public transport systems.

Leading engineering support for rail sector OEMs

M Tools made its debut Railtex/Infrarail appearance at stand L73. The company is a key player in the rail industry when it comes to assisting businesses who manufacture rail equipment and rolling stock. They create jigs and machinery which allow customers to carry out highly complex operations. At its first ever Railtex/Infrarail exhibit, the firm talked to businesses about how they can not only provide a range of equipment which is ready to go, but which can have custom one-off designs and bespoke software – so everything can look, feel and be calibrated to the company which commissioned it. Visitors to the stand also learned how they were able to replicate any existing machines which are coming to the end of their life cycle.

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Automatic counting technology to improve passenger travel experience

t stand G36, Acorel exhibited, a provider of automatic counting solutions to the passenger transport industry for more than 30 years. Acorel’s solutions have assisted transport operators on understanding passenger travel behaviour and trends, with the ultimate goal of improving the service to meet the changing travel demands. The firm’s automatic counting solution relies on sensors installed on the vehicle doors, which record the number of passengers getting on and off in real time. The data collected, enhanced by other systems (VMS, TMS, GPS, etc.) are then processed and analysed by the software Focus on Board, which produces standardised or custom reports. Acorel director Phil Linnecor also presented at the show’s Seminar Theatre on Wednesday 08 September, with a discussion titled: ‘Improved automatic counting provides realtime passenger information’ In his presentation, Phil demonstrated how passenger counting solutions are helping to

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level the playing field for passengers, following the introduction of wheelchair and pushchair technologies and how these technologies can

be used to improve the travel lives of those passengers.

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Scalable trackside safety technology launched at Railtex/Infrarail 2021

t stand P16, Hitachi Information Control Systems Europe (HICSE), the UK-based provider of software products for railway signalling and operations, including simulators and automatic route setting systems, exhibited its safety support system Trackside Guardian. Developing support systems for safety in the rail industry has always been at the heart of Hitachi Information Control Systems Europe Ltd – and never more so than now, with recent rail incidents sharpening the industry’s focus on track workers, and in particular their exposure to moving trains. Developers at Hitachi have used their expertise and signalling domain knowledge to develop a novel system that offers both increased safety and improved efficiency. It operates in parallel with the existing processes, independently calculating what signalling protection is required to protect a worksite. It doesn’t require any lineside equipment, although if devices such as TCODs are present it can interface with them.

Trackside Guardian, the new innovation in rail safety was launched at Railtex/Infrarail 2021 – with a great team on the stand from sales,

developers, engineers– all working together to promote this pioneering technology to the rail industry.

For more information see www.hitachi-infocon.com/products-services/trackside-guardian/

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Innovative modular access for the railway

tand E56 saw Kwik-Step Ltd present its range of Modular Platforms and Stairways to infrastructure and rolling stock managers visiting Railtex/Infrarail. Kwik-Step is a versatile system with a range of modules and options which can be combined to match the requirements of each site. The firm’s customer base includes Network Rail, Irish Rail, Northern Ireland Railways and London Underground, among others. All components are designed for manual handling and installation with hand tools – and are all design-checked for maximum loading in even the worst permitted ground conditions. Kwik-Step Platforms are made from lightweight FRP composites – enabling quick and simple installation at the trackside or for access to existing structures. Kwik-Step Stairways are made from galvanized steel and designed for permanent installation on embankments and cuttings. .

Driving growth for companies in the rail sector

tand L60 saw work-winning consultancy Market Infra make its debut in Railtex/Infrarail’s ‘Eagle Lab’ area. The company was looking to build on its fantastic track record of securing work for its clients – with £500m delivered in growth to the companies it serves in just five years. Market Infra helps clients in the rail sector win and successfully deliver major projects across the UK and Ireland. The company’s previous experience involves all aspects of bid and project management: from bid writing to business development and marketing services. Until this year, the company has predominantly been in the business of seeking and clinching deals for clients – whether that’s exploring and evaluating new markets or helping to drive the bid management process itself. Now, however, the firm has recently added full project management capabilities to their offering and showcased these at Railtex/ railbusinessdaily.com

Infrarail 2021. Business director Tom Hudson said: “In terms of the value we can provide, this means we are now a full 360-degree consultancy,” “We can

work shoulder-to-shoulder with a client, enable them to explore new territory, bid for the work with them and then, finally, we can help them to actually deliver on the contract.” | 17

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Superior retaining wall systems to protect rail lines

arshalls Civils and Drainage welcomed visitors to stand E30, introducing its leading range of UK-manufactured precast concrete water management, linear drainage and retaining wall solutions. Marshalls exhibited its Redi-Rock™ walling system, which is designed, engineered and manufactured offsite to offer added value, a safer working environment and modern methods of construction to all involved. Utilised by Network Rail for emergency works, existing and new infrastructure, the UK manufactured Redi-Rock™ modular walling is ideal for protecting the rail line against erosion, landslips and rock falls as well as being both quick and easy to install when you have limited tracktime available.

Specialist depot and workshop technology on show

ocated at stand D31 was Mechan Ltd, showcasing an extensive range of depot maintenance equipment. Mechan is a world industry leader in the design and manufacture of lifting and handling equipment for rail depots and workshops. The firm offeris a wide range of products to clients worldwide ranging from lifting jacks, equipment drops, bespoke traversers and much more. The Sheffield-based manufacturer combines traditional engineering skills with innovative design and the latest technology, to drive the development of equipment that epitomises its commitment to quality, safety and reliability. Its presence in the rail sector includes Mechan, working regularly depot operators and train builders including Siemens, Hitachi, Network Rail, Bombardier and Alstom. The Mechan team demonstrated to visitors how its products can be tailored to the unique needs of rail depot operators, making maintenance of trains safer and more efficient.

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Details of the third-party products the firm supply were also demonstrated, including

a working version of the CALIPRI wheelset measuring device.

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High visibility clothing dazzles visitors

eo Workwear is a Hi Vis clothing specialist based in Barnstaple, North Devon. The business attended Railtex/Infrarail as part of its essential programme of face-to-face networking – explaining the benefits of their clothing to visitors at stand D47, whilst at the same time reaching out to its wide network of suppliers, old and new. Their staff said it was important to support trade shows – an essential lifeblood to the industry, which needs the sector to stand by it, now restrictions have been lifted. The business has concentrated on one area in particular over recent years – inclusivity. It has found, for example, that 13 per cent of workers on major projects such as HS2 are women, and the number is rising annually. The business’s aim is to create workwear regardless of if the wearer is a man or woman, covering all size requirements. Many of the garments on display were from the EcoViz® range of garments, all made from recycled or sustainable fabrics. Leo’s attention to these areas are the latest steps in a 40-year journey, which has led to their garments worn on practically every major project on the UK rail network.

INCLUSIVITY

85 railbusinessdaily.com

RAIL COMPLIANT GARMENTS

SUSTAINABILITY

LEOWORKWEAR.COM

01271 378904

@LEO-WORKWEAR @LEOWORKWEAR

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Geospatial certainty across the project lifecycle

t stand K71 in the new ‘Eagle Lab’ area, Murphy Geospatial showcased its rail survey services to the industry. Murphy Geospatial has extensive experience delivering railway surveys for multiple stakeholders across the UK and Ireland, working closely with railway owners, principal contractors, engineers and designers to provide the geospatial certainty they need to safely maintain and construct our railway infrastructure. The firm has extensive experience working with Network Rail, Transport for London, Irish Rail, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, Translink, Skanska, Balfour Beatty, Laing O’Rourke, Mott MacDonald, and AMCO, helping them to successfully complete work on the renewal and construction of major projects, including HS2, Crossrail, Luas Cross City, as well as various station upgrades. From aerial survey creating line mapping, orthophotography and digital terrain models to the creation of as-built BIM models from laser scan data; track surveys and gauging, rail

monitoring and utility surveying; through to full geospatial management of railway projects,

Murphy Geospatial’s railway surveys provide geospatial certainty across the project lifecycle.

Geospatial certainty you can trust murphygs.com

Bespoke rail surveying services to suit your requirements! Access is usually very restricted on the railway. It is imperative that information is recorded efﬁciently and comprehensively whilst maintaining Network Rail’s standards for accuracy. At Murphy Geospatial, we are committed to providing geospatial certainty to reduce costs and risks.

Tunnel surveys

Condition surveys

P Way and topographical

Utility mapping

Building information Heights & staggers, modelling (BIM) and gauging services services

Movement and environmental monitoring

We are widely recognised as one of the most experienced, professional, innovative, and technically proﬁcient surveying companies in the UK and Ireland today.

Get in touch

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Anton Ricks

aricks@murphygs.com

+44 203 598 3775

murphygs.com

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Train cleaning solutions of the future come to Railtex/Infrarail

ompact cleaning innovation business Motor Scubber UK was based at stand F30, offering a comprehensive professional cleaning service for the rail industry. The company’s range of machines are designed and manufactured for professional use, Reinventing the cleaning experience, to ensure faster cleaning while achieving outstanding results. The revolutionary DMT system with Virus Control, transforms the way you clean, saving time, effort and costs. Making cleaning faster and safer, while achieving outstanding hygiene results on floors and surfaces. STORM® and M-Wipes set the new standard in touch point disinfection, specifically invented for virus control. The STORM® is a Liquid Layer Applicator is also a very popular product for common touch point cleaning. Motor Scubber’s cleaning solutions can be utilised for a variety of rail solutions, including nose end cleaning, safety steps, detail cleaning, side of train, and many more. .

Complete manufacturing solutions from Nubold Group

t stand H51, Nubold Group Ltd, a Tier 1 OEM Manufacturer offering a variety of specialist services to the rail sector. At this year’s exhibition Nubold showcased its lightweight and carbon neutral products that are utilised by suppliers working across the rail industry. Heavy fabrications for the rail industry are easily handled by the Group’s 15t overhead cranage, which can load direct to articulated transport for both nationwide and overseas destinations. Its precision machining facility can also produce bodyside brackets, grab rails, table legs, and all manner of other rolling stock components. Nubold’s facility caters for both fire rated powder coatings and wet paint finishes – essential for meeting stringent rail standards. Nubold’s service offering includes design, development and product engineering, project management, precision machining of Ferrous, non-ferrous and exotics, surface finishing using fire rated coatings and timber and composite fabrications including MDF, Glass, Honeycomb, PU and RIM. railbusinessdaily.com

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OGAB on track for a greener outlook

GAB Ltd made its Railtex/Infrarail debut at stand L51 in the Eagle Lab area of the exhibition, bringing its sustainable solutions to the rail sector. OGAB delivers industry-leading technology to allow trains to work in a more environmentally friendly way, with the help of aerodynamic, thermodynamic and applied engineering knowhow. The firm has delivered a number of hi-tech solutions to the market to allow train operators to kerb their carbon footprint. This includes a sustainable braking system that actively cools brakes as the train runs – cutting back on degradation, making the vehicle more efficient and preventing brake wear from entering the atmosphere. At the show OGAB discussed its Ogab® two rail sector innovationsAdvanced TRS® For Rail – Which reduces journey times, saves fuel, and increases sustainability by reducing aerodynamic losses through an industry-leading Turbulence Reduction System.

Sustainable Braking For Rail – Which minimises the negative impact of train braking and increases the safety and performance

of trains through brake cooling and particle capture technology. .

Specialist cable assembly solutions for the sector

able assembly specialist Phoenix Dynamics exhibited at stand H16. The company is a specialist manufacturer of High-Performance Cable Assemblies with a product range that includes Wiring Harnesses, RF Cables, Fibre-Optics, Battery Cables and Electro-Mechanical Assemblies such as Control Panels & Distribution Boxes. Bespoke lowpressure over-moulding is also provided for the ruggedization of cables and environmental protection of components. To complement its manufacturing capabilities, Phoenix Dynamics has a dedicated team of engineers to support customers’ projects, from upfront design and development through to aftersales service and repair. Phoenix Dynamics has vast experience building products for harsh environment and high-reliability applications. The firm took the opportunity at Railtex/Infrarail to speak to manufacturers of rolling stock, trackside equipment and infrastructure.

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Assurance and certification services that keep the wheels turning

etwork Certification Body (NCB) exhibited at stand H51, providing information on railway assurance and certification on infrastructure, vehicle and freight projects, both UK and worldwide. NCB is an independent subsidiary of Network Rail, and one of the UK’s leading railway independent assessment bodies, providing assessment, certification and advisory services to projects across the railway industry. The Body’s knowledge of the processes and connections throughout the railway industry give it an unparalleled ability to provide solutions that work for organisations involved in the sector. NCB has extensive experience with a team of over 50 railway engineers delivering an average of 200 rail projects at any one tim.e NCB is accredited by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service and recognised by the ORR as an approved body and designated body for the evaluation of technical compliance and as an assessment body for the assessment of project system.

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Defining industry on railways around the world

tand P40 showcased Pandrol (Vortok), a leading supplier of rail fastening systems and aluminothermic welding. Pandrol defines the industry standard across rail fastening systems and aluminothermic welding. It has created a portfolio of rail infrastructure in more than 100 countries with products and services extending to designing, developing and manufacturing equipment to make constructing and maintaining railways more efficient. The company has been chosen by Network Rail, DeutscheBahn, Siemens and Thales to design and manufacture new rail engineering technology. Its unique solutions to rail track maintenance, rail signalling and rail stressing problems increase productivity, reduce possession times and provide improvements to railway and worker safety.

Putting British Engineering into High Speed

CMY

The global leader in rail infrastructure technology for over 80 years, we represent the best of British engineering and innovation. Our products, manufactured in Worksop, designed in Surrey, underpin the world’s fastest railways.

Partners in excellence www.pandrol.com

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Visit the Insights area of our website to read more about our innovative development of rail fastenings for slab application and see our high speed product offering.

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Innovative track training solutions from Pennant and Track Access

ennant International was in attendance at stand H36, presenting their range of track training technology and integrated product support services. From technical documentation to manuals and video to simulation, Pennant and Track Access have been supplying the rail industry with innovative training solutions for decades. This capability in turn, has opened the possibility of innovative VR, Computer-Based Training (CBT) and e-learning to dramatically reduce centralised training costs and provide the means of allowing trainees to practice hazardous procedures in a completely safe virtual world. Pennant’s rail and Track Access team were on hand at Railtex/Infrarail to showcase the company’s diverse portfolio of work for the rail industry.

Cornerstone of rail engineering knowledge on show at the NEC

t stand N07, the Permanent Way Institution (PWI) showcased its training, membership, professional development and learning services to the rail industry. The PWI works closely with leading organisations and government bodies, to influence and directly impact industry training, management and competency standards. Today, the Institution has over thousands of members, and hundreds of professionally registered engineers; demonstrating our increasing importance to the industry. It exists to enhance the practice of railway infrastructure engineering, the industry as a whole, as well as the careers of its members, and offers wide opportunities for comprehensive professional development, including training, other learning opportunities, and specialist technical literature. At its stand, the PWI enjoyed speaking to existing and new and prospective members, as well as apprentices visiting Railtex/Infrarail about how the Institution can support them throughout their careers in the rail industry. . railbusinessdaily.com

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Keeping rail industry workers safe and clean

olyco Heathline was in attendance at stand P30, displaying its protection and hygiene products for users in the rail industry. The company’s wide and technical range - including reusable and disposable gloves, workwear and bags - is trusted and used by multiple sectors, including rail, throughout the UK and overseas. From a state-of-the-art warehouse and laboratory testing facility in Lincolnshire, Polyco’s expert teams drive research and development and maintain logistics and customer service levels to ensure just-in-time supply. Polyco’s range of reusable gloves made from recycled plastic were on display at the stand, alongside the company’s range of existing products, and some new developments too.

Project management software and innovations showcased

roject Control Tools (PCT) exhibited at stand P60, showcasing its efficient project software range. The company specialises in providing efficient software to the rail, construction and manufacturing industries. PCT has developed StoresMate and SiteMate which assist businesses with their Digital Transformation Journey. StoresMate is a tool/asset management system for those who want to control their tools/ equipment going to and from a central location, reducing tool loss and eliminating late off hire charges. SiteMate is project control software, creating efficient systems for reporting, briefing and document control. Saving companies time on administration, paperwork and data gathering. SiteMate enables projects and businesses to digitise all project and site processes offering a range of benefits and efficiencies. The PCT team was on hand at their stand, networking and meeting delegates and providing live demonstrations of StoresMate in real time. . 26 |

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Flexible sealing solutions to protect and secure rail assets

oxtec took to stand M17 to showcase its cable and pipe sealing solutions. The company’s seals have been tested and approved by London Underground and Network Rail. They protect rail assets against fire, smoke, water, rodents, gas, vibration, humidity, dust and EMC. Applications in the rail sector which benefit from these seal solutions include traction power, signalling and rail control, communications, tunnels and bridges, railway stations and rail yards. Clients are able to standardise with superior products to ensure safe, reliable and costeffective operations. The solutions allow multiple cables and conduits of different sizes to be routed through a single opening. Roxtec’s rail industry sealing experts were on hand to help attendees and demonstrate their cable and pipe sealing requirements to businesses from all aspects of rail. .

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Welcoming the next generation of track warning systems

chweizer Electronic welcomed visitors to stand N16, to discuss its automated track protection systems. Schweizer Electronic has been developing and manufacturing train detection and warning systems for more than 50 years. Still owned by the Schweizer family with head-quarters in Switzerland, the company’s goal is to increase safety while also improving access efficiency, user friendliness and worker productivity. At Railtex/Infrarail 2021, Schweizer promoted its newest radio-based product, Lynx, which provides a platform for the next generation of track warning systems and is currently being used in LOWS, ATWS and SATWS. As well as exhibiting at the stand, Schweizer’s UK Managing Director Neil Bradbury will give a realistic overview of how the Schweizer Electronic Group has developed systems that allow for greater flexibility in the area of track safety, in particular how the development of Automatic Sector Switching systems can only benefit track working.

Railway Automation – Flex system platform The Flex Level Crossing System is based on a single, scalable and modular platform which is largely based on standard industrial components. This results in low acquisition costs, high maintenance intervals, minimal maintenance costs, little training for all types of level crossings and a simple procurement and long-term availability of spare parts.

Work Protection – Minimel Lynx product family

Lynx

The radio warning system Minimel Lynx is an innovative development for automated track workers and goods protection on the open rail. The warning system detects approaching trains and warns construction workers on worksites with optical and acoustical signals. The trains are counted either automatically using treadles, train detector or manually by the look-out operator using the radio hand switch.

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Portable ramp solutions for safe and convenient railway access

afe access ramp specialists Portaramp UK took to stand J71 at Railtex/Infrarail 2021. Portaramp offers an end-to-end holistic solution to our customers from design, build and distribution, to training, installation, maintenance, and asset management, providing total peace of mind for all. The company designs and manufacture compliant tailor-made products to suit specific client requirements such as rail wheelchair ramps, evacuation ramps, and supply depo and maintenance fall protection solutions such as pit protection, train access platforms and overhead rigid rail safety line fall arrest systems. Portaramp is a leading OEM across multiple industries for safe access and ramp solutions, and brought its 20+ years’ knowledge and experience of access ramp solutions to delegates at the exhibition.

Quality radio communications solutions for the rail market

tand N67 welcomed Radionika Ltd, a Poland-based radio communications solutions business. The company is a specialist the in design, production and implementation of radio communication devices and systems for the rail industry. The product offering is unique and technically perfected by Radionika’s employees. Radionika thrives in finding, designing and implementing new technical solutions for railway systems. The company says it is motivated to gain customers’ trust by providing them with top-notch radio communication quality. At Railtex/Infrarail 2021, the company met with visitors to ensure its position in the market remains strong and secure, and it continues to support the industry with its technical solutions.

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Supporting the railway family in times of need

he Railway Benefit Fund exhibited at stand P67, welcoming visitors to discuss how they can support members of the rail industry in need. The charity is funded entirely by donations and fundraising efforts and dedicated to providing help and support to current, former and retired rail workers and their families during tough times. It used Railtex/Infrarail as a great opportunity to spread awareness of its work and gain new ambassadors and supporters. RBF was supported at the show by Honorary President Pete Waterman OBE, who represented the charity on the Tuesday of the show and met with visitors to the stand.

Providing buyer assurance to businesses working on the railway

t stand G10, RISQS exhibited its supplier qualification service to visitors from all aspects of the industry. RISQS is the Railway Industry Supplier Qualification Scheme, and provides its 92 buyer members with the assurance to do business with confidence with more than 4,000 supplier members. The scheme provides suppliers with an open, fair and transparent way for them to be formally recognised as capable providers of products and services to the UK rail market. Suppliers can be audited once via RISQS for their capabilities, streamlining the process and removing the need for multiple, duplicate auditing from different buyers. Its benchmarking tool allows suppliers see how they compare to their peers. And innovations make RISQS simpler and more efficient to use, like our API that plugs into buyers’ purchasing systems. At Railtex/Infrarail 2021, RISQs met with existing and potential new members, with around half of exhibiting companies already signed up the scheme and more showing great interest. 30 |

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Glass and glazing with clear value

ood glazing and glass are crucial in the development and maintenance of rolling stock. PSV Glass and Glazing couples this with industry-leading glass coating solutions for a strong industry-wide customer base of OEMS and TOCs. They met customers at stand C37, explaining how their offering was completely devoted to transport. Presence is important to PSV, which is why its staff were at Railtex/Infrarail – providing a crucial reminder that they are there to assist with any new projects or maintenance needs their clients, both current and prospective, might have.

The only specialist glass distributor and installer that is 100% dedicated to Bus, Coach, Rail & Motorhome applications PSV Glass & Glazing is recognised as the rail glazing authority with over 30-years’ experience in providing high quality professional glazing solutions acknowledged by all the industry OEMs who maintain their train fleets and direct glazing services to Inter-City and Metro Train Operators; for all types of passenger transport, from buses and coaches to trams and high-speed trains, from windscreens and cab glass to passenger saloon and door glass.

One area of specialisation is interior polyester filming services, from decal maintenance to the supply and application of anti-graffiti window protection and solar control films. A new film launched by PSV Glass & Glazing in 2021, Metro Solar Film (MSF) is a specialist high-performance film that combines both anti-graffiti protection with solar gain control.

For more information, please contact film@psvglass.co.uk or call on 01494 533131

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Growing architects firm makes Railtex/ Infrarail debut

ward-winning architectural practice SEED Architects visited Railtex/ Infrarail for the first time, exhibiting at stand K61. SEED is a design driven, problem solving office, which is structured to permit all members of the group to bring creative, practical and value for money solutions to its clients. The Manchester-based company has designed new stations, interchanges, accessibility solutions, facility expansions and more for over two decades. Its work in the sector is carried out bespoke for top-tier clients, with sustainability and social responsibility playing a central role in their designs. After doubling in size and taking on a new major survey contract, SEED used the exhibition at the NEC as a great opportunity to meet the industry and forge new alliances in the rail sector.

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Supporting fleets with high quality driver training

river training solutions provider Red Training took to stand P04 to discuss its practical and classroom training services with visitors from the rail sector. The company is a fully accredited DVSA (Driver and Vehicles Standards Agency) Fleet Training provider. Red Training trains its own trainers for corporate and fleet training work ensuring that its high standards of quality are applied consistently throughout the UK. The firm’s practical and classroom training can be delivered at the client’s location, while its specialist training centre at Donington Park is also equipped to deliver driver workshops, specialist training, off-road training and licence acquisition. Red Training also offers a number of JAUPT and DVSA approved CPC training courses, both in-person and online.

The one-stop groundworks and civil engineering specialists

tand N17 saw groundworks and civil engineering specialist Scott Parnell come to Railtex/Infrarail, Alongside an extensive stock of platform, trackside drainage and signalling products the firm is also the sole suppliers of ArcoSystem Trough, TECHNO-Crete Cement Free Postmix, Touchsafe 100% GRP Palisade and GRP Ballast Boards. At the exhibiton Scott Parnell was on hand to teach visitors about their innovative products designed to reduce carbon consumption and installation costs, as well as handing out boxes of wild seed flowers. Rosie Birkett, head of sales at Gravitas International, also provided an address to the Seminar Theatre on behalf of Scott Parnell, explaining how FlexMSE, Scott Parnell’s vegetation retaining wall system can withstand unlimited differential settlement, supporting areas where there is ground movement. .

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Connecting the industry with marketleading solutions

t stand H46, HARTING presented its range of rail sector reliable connectivity solutions. HARTING’s stand gave visitors the opportunity to learn more about the firm’s solutions for rail transportation and to discuss the benefits of its innovative products with its rail market managers. Its product range includes VarioShell, a flexible housing for inter-car connections, consisting of two parts that can be separated, and a durable, pluggable solution with the High-Performance Transformer Connector (400, 850 or 1400A). HARTING also provides specialist design and manufacture of inter-car jumpers for power and data, mounted between, under or on trains. The company has also embraced the trend of miniaturisation, manufacturing board-toboard and wire-to-board connectivity, including innovations for Single Pair Ethernet (SPE).

Transformers with lightning-fast turnaround

eterborough-based JMS Transformers has been serving industries with its knowhow for about thirty years and was pleased to get the chance post-lockdown to meet old and new prospects at Railtex/ Infrarail. At stand P70, the business shared with visitors how its staff originally manufacture transformers, switch gear, voltage stabilisers and practically any electrical assembly required. The business can deliver fully custom or standard design equipment and can work to overhaul failed equipment. The secret to their success, the team at Railtex/Infrarail said, was fast industry-leading turnaround, with some products arriving with them at the care centre and being returned in just days. The business refuses to let years of experience sway it from keeping keenly competitive – remaining a support to contractors from Tier One through to other smaller businesses who might normally require wholesaler assistance.

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World famous tool and tool storage solutions

tanley Black & Decker is one of the household names which exhibited at the event – a world-famous hand tools and tool storage firm with substantial domestic and industrial customer bases, showcasing multiple brands including DEWALT, STANLEY and FACOM. Its presence at Railtex/Infrarail, at stand B41, was just one element of its commitment to rail, with its staff being particularly keen to always understand first-hand the needs of the industry. The business has a dedicated team which reaches out to the sector to understand what the very latest requirements are. They also work with many customers directly to ensure tools are assembled and stored in a way that suits their needs. The business works with everyone from TfL to Hitachi, infrastructure to rolling stock – respecting that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. This was the business’s first foray into the Railtex/Infrarail family of exhibitions.

Stanley Black & Decker is the worldwide leader in tools and storage. We work every day to create the tools that help you build and maintain the world.

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Pros, tradespeople and do-ityourselfers alike rely on us every day for the toughest, strongest, most innovative hand tools, power tools, accessories and storage solutions on the market.

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Intelligent, adaptable Depot Personnel Protection Systems

t stand N02, depot protection specialist Zonegreen exhibited its RFID Depot Personnel Protection System (DPPS). The company works closely with TOCs, consultants and contractors involved in depot construction to provide intelligent, adaptable and reliable protection systems. Zonegreen’s systems are fully and independently EMC tested, and also compliant with all current railway standards. Zonegreen is the only company to specialise solely in depot protection equipment and operates globally with tried, tested and proven equipment that is configured to meet a specific depot’s layout and needs.

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RIA welcomes Railtex/Infrarail return as rail supports UK economic recovery

t an address to the Railtex/Infrarail 2021 audience, the Railway Industry Association (RIA) welcomed representatives from across the sector and highlighted the importance of the return of in-person trade shows along with the role of rail in driving the UK’s economic recovery. During his speech, RIA Chief Executive Darran Caplan highlighted how the railways have kept essential goods and services moving over the last 18 months, and, looking ahead, will be at the heart of the ‘levelling up’ agenda and essential to help reach the UK’s climate targets. Caplan commented: “…it was fantastic to see real optimism about the future of the supply sector at Railtex / Infrarail, with such a vibrant and diverse range of companies exhibiting, and industry leaders, policy makers and rail businesses coming together. “It is clear rail is a prime candidate to support the Government’s build back better agenda and lead the economic recovery. As Railtex / Infrarail shows, the industry is ready to deliver, supporting passengers and freight users as well as boosting the wider economy in the months and years to come.”

The next generation of sustainable energy solutions

oppecke Industries exhibited its lithium-ion battery technology at stand C66. The firm’s latest generation batteries provide high energy and power density, benefiting from a high cycle life. The technology is ideal for the rapid charging that is required for battery-powered rail journeys. As operators require battery power to compliment hydrogen-powered trains and biofuel/electric hybrids, Hoppecke is responding to an increasing demand for energy storage systems, both on board trains and trackside. The firm has been working with major OEMs to meet specific requirements. Hoppecke’s lithium-ion technology has significant environmental benefits and is proving a popular alternative to diesel power, particularly as the UK government is targeting a phase out of diesel trains by 2040. .

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Infrastructure solutions to support a longer lasting railway

t stand G11, Hird Rail and Trough Tec Systems brought their rail infrastructure and safety innovations to Railtex/Infrarail 2021. Hird Rail Development is a supplier of Insulated Rail Joint Repair Kits, Cold Bolt Expansion Tooling and Coated Insulated Rail Joints. The company showcased its increased height anti trespass panels (Witches Hats) and alarm system at the exhibiton. Trough-Tec Systems supplies Green Trough, an innovative cable management system available in six different sizes and manufactured from recycled polymer. The latest addition to the range is TTS Walkway, an ideal solution where a combined cable trough and cess walkway is required. The Hird Group works closely with organisations such as Network Rail, Transport for London along and other operators and infrastructure managers.

ITH gets rail industry seal of approval at Railtex/Infrarail 2021

TH Bolting Technology featured at stand N68, displaying its range of supplies for construction machines. Using patented technologies and fully bespoke solutions to suit a range of applications, ITH has 35 years’ experience in innovative cost saving Torque and Bolt Stretching Technologies. ITH is a leading system supplier in industrial bolting technology with four key competencies: high-quality bolting solutions, engineering know-how, innovative fasteners, and qualified service. For the businesses operating in the rail industry, ITH provides leading bolting solutions (digital data logging optional) for areas including railway tracks and sleepers, buffer bolt connections, coupling bolts, bogie bolt connections, wheel and brake disc connection, shock absorber bolts and all further bolting connections from M16 and bigger.

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Advanced security solutions for safer rail travel

tand B62 welcomed Hikvision UK & Ireland, global manufacturer of physical security solutions. The company showcased its CCTV and access control and intercom systems, adding intelligence beyond just video surveillance, to the rail sector. As an industry that is both constantly ‘on the move’ and also has large amounts of physical infrastructure, it deals with different threats and security challenges. From deterring graffiti artists in the depot to ensuring a secure journey, Hikvision solutions can meet these challenges with innovative technology such as thermal imaging, access control, alarm systems, video intercom, display and control systems and many more. .

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Creating a better rail industry with creative technologies

t stand H41, Seksui Chemicals presents its range of high performance plastic and environmental and infrastructure products to visitors from across the rail market. The company supplies chemical products using advanced technologies to suit the needs of users in the transportation markets. Seksui presented its synthetic wood sleeper solution at Railtex/Infrarail 2021. Since 1980, over 2,300,000 of Seksui synthetic wood sleepers have been fitted sustainably on 1,400 kilometres of railway track. The products are used primarily on track sections such as switches and bridges. Also presented was Seksui Chemical’s Calmmoon Rail product, a rail web noise shielding which has been tested by DB AG and BMVBS in 2012 and found to be the most effective technology for rail web noise damping/shielding in Germany with an average overall noise reduction of 3 dB.

‘SET’ting the benchmark for efficient root cause analysis and innovative, reliable, solutions

tand H51 welcomed SET Ltd, obsolescence engineering specialists, to the UK rail market. SET is engineering company specialising in the investigation, repair, overhaul and replacement of fragile and obsolete electronic systems to the rail industry. The company also offers development of innovative high efficiency, low wear rail traction systems. Working closely with maintenance engineers in the rail industry, SET offers a comprehensive repair and investigation service aimed at getting to the root cause of ongoing maintenance issues. The firm used Railtex/Infrarail 2021 to discuss how by specialising in form, fit and function replacement of obsolete components and modules, it can help to increase the lifetime of rolling stock and infrastructure. .

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Fluid engineering solutions for rotating equipment from Sulzar

t stand B41, Sulzar brought its rotating equipment services and expertise to the rail industry at Birmingham NEC. Using a network of more than 100 service sites internationally, Sulzer provides cutting-edge parts and maintenance and repair solutions for pumps, turbines, compressors, motors and generators. Sulzar services original equipment, but also all associated third-party rotating equipment, maximizing its sustainability and lifecycle cost-effectiveness. Sulzar understands the high standards that are required within today’s rail industry and its specialist teams offer tailored solutions for customers to achieve cost-effective maintenance that provides an extended lifecycle. For the first time at Railtex/Infrarail, the company’s product offering was showcased in a completely virtual, interactive environment.

Cable company with strong ties to the industry

t stand C02, staff from Shoal Group’s Cablecraft and FS Cables were no strangers to the bustle and atmosphere of Railtex/Infrarail. They discussed their wide range of cable accessory ranges with a strong customer base of major contractors. Shoal Group provides more than 28,000 cable management, identification and termination solutions and over 4,500 flexible and specialist cables products. Some notable clients include Siemen’s, Alstom and Henry Williams. They arrived at the exhibition just over one month on from the group acquiring Specialised Wiring Accessories (SWA) – further adding to their range and capabilities in the industry. Priding themselves on their level of service, credentials – including London Underground approval – and fast turnaround, the staff felt wellpositioned to reach out and discuss solutions with customers both established and new.

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Components for the backbone of rail’s infrastructure

or many at the exhibition, British Steel is in need of no introduction. The company produces steel products vital to the UK’s infrastructure – including rail and sleeper components. British Steel works with major infrastructure providers, with the aim of providing a railway that needs less maintenance and enjoys a longer life. The business operates from a headquarters in Scunthorpe, where it is famous for producing steel for the industry, its mill having a proud history stretching over 100 years. During the event, at stand N71, staff talked visitors through important technologies such as their HP335, which is specially designed to resist wear and rolling contact fatigue, as well as their best-selling anti-corrosive variant Zinoco® and their newly-launched self-protecting and durable Weathering Steel structural sections. Of course, many will have noticed British Steel’s presence elsewhere in Railtex/Infrarail. The business sponsors the ‘On-Track’ demonstration area – where innovative companies from around the country come to demonstrate their tools and equipment for thousands of visitors.

Industry-leading sheet metalwork with sights set on long-term care

t was the first time that sheet metalwork manufacturer Hydram Engineering has been to a Railtex/Infrarail exhibition – but for them the bustling environment surrounding stand G16 was already providing success. Having turned its sights on the rail industry for just ten years, Hydram has moved fast and made a major impact on the sector, having struck deals with businesses such as Alstom, CAF Rail and Hitachi amongst others. A one-stop-shop based in County Durham, in the North East, Hydram supplies everything from simple bracketry right through to painted and finished products. Its work can mainly be found in the interiors of rolling stock, however Infrarailfocussed visitors would have been interested to see the work that it produces to create trackside cabinets amongst other things. The business says it is not resting on the success its staff has built in the last decade. It is now looking to develop service contracts

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to further cement its reputation as a business of choice within the industry – answering a

growing need for long-term collaboration that strengthens rail operations for years to come.

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An exhibition worthy of a 60,000-strong product showcase

taff from Phoenix Contact, exhibiting at stand Q77, enjoyed their first time at Railtex/Infrarail. They said that following on from restrictions being lifted, the event was bringing high quality leads – exceeding all expectations. They were pleased to take the plunge and exhibit, after frequently visiting the events in the past. They added they were pleased to get the chance to speak with potential clients about their 60,000 strong range of products that serve the rail industry and other sectors. These include control components such as terminal blocks, DC/ DC converters and PLCs. The business has worked with the rail industry since producing its first product back in 1923. Now it looks towards delivering innovative digital solutions – working with everyone from major contractors like Amey to smaller businesses beginning to make their mark in the industry.

Metalwork with complete control

or Washington Metalworks this was its second time taking part in the exhibition, having been a part of Railtex 2019 – the last chance exhibitors had before the pandemic. A sheet metalwork company, its exhibition team had been talking to clients and potential customers at stand B02 about the work they do from their 130,000 square foot premises. All the work they carry out is based in one place, with control over the complete manufacturing process. Washington Metalworks has made a name for itself with major train builders, including CAF Rail, Siemens and recently Stadler. That said, it is a proven manufacturer for all size companies, explaining to the Railtex/Infrarail visitors how its 220 staff were able to develop large structures, or specialised smaller one-off projects.

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A gold standard in tools and tool storage

ew need an introduction to Snap-on, a Wisconsin-based business which has reach across the globe as a major tooling manufacturer. The business met visitors at stand B10. As part of their rail offering, the Snap-on team was speaking to everyone – from those working in rolling stock, to OEMs and contractors – about the tool control solutions and hand tooling they had available to play a part in almost any job. Noted names they were reuniting with throughout the course of the exhibition include Eurostar, Hitachi, Alstom and Bombardier. They said that many were interested in what they had to show at the event, and particularly impressed with their high-tech toolboxes which keep a watchful eye over access, tracking use of each apparatus.

An environmentally sound approach to precast concrete solutions

nderton Concrete was at the event to showcase a range of services it can provide to the rail industry, including precast concrete troughing solutions – which house the essential signal cables which allow rail infrastructure to run – as well as retaining wall systems. At stand N37, its specialists were also showing visitors their new eco trough – a much lighter answer to cable housing, weighing in at 21 kg per unit as opposed to the usual 38kg and using 40 percent less carbon. The UK-based business is used to being a part of Railtex and has developed a strong reputation with customers including Network Rail and Scott Parnell. The business praised the good conversations encouraged by the event, which enabled its staff to talk to visitors face-to-face about their sustainable solutions, large stock and highquality materials that adhere to the strict standards of rail.

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Cutting-edge materials combined with ultra-modern design

wo brands that work together to serve a spectrum of customers are Corex Honeycomb and Bespoke Composite Panels. The businesses combine their solutions to create specialised lightweight materials which can then be used to create unique designs for carriage walls, doors, tables, ceilings and floors – without sharing the weight restrictions of more conventional materials, such as solid steel. Strong, lightweight and recyclable, aluminium honeycomb can be used to create shapes which other materials would struggle with, giving train operating companies and OEMs a wide array of design possibilities. Greeting clients and future customers at stand H10, staff felt that the quality of new connections being made at Railtex/Infrarail were strong. Sustainability was a clear underlying theme in some of the discussions they were having.

Essential turnkey services for rail

he Crown Group is a growing SME with a solid turnover of £4m. The business, showcasing its services at stand L53, provides a wide range of services including tree surgery, de-vegetation, and small civils such as drainage and walkways. The company has developed strong working relationships with major businesses, helping the likes of Murphy, Volker Rail and Balfour Beatty. It has been a part of the prestigious HS2 project, serving as a Tier 2 contractor. The team attending Railtex/Infrarail shared their experience, helping visitors understand how they could provide them with a full turnkey solution for clients when it came to this essential de-vegetation.

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Recruiting the best people to make businesses even better

PI Recruitment is a well-established 59-year-old business, which primarily serves the rail and aerospace sectors. It recruits specialist engineers who can work on a range of crucial rail-related disciplines, including signalling installation, HVAC and project management. Its clients include any business seeking to grow its base of personnel – with a roster that includes major names such as Siemens. For the team at stand D61 Railtex/Infrarail was an opportunity to continue with its long-term business relationships, which have helped develop strong repeat business and good understanding of client business requirements.

Industry titan updating visitors on their recent growth and successes

lstom is synonymous with new-build rolling stock and maintenance in the UK and across the world. As a leading signalling supplier in CP6, and having recently acquired Bombardier Transportation, Railtex/Infrarail was an important time for this rail titan to reconnect with and update supply chain, customers and potential employees. For the staff representing the business, at stand B11, it was good to network in person. They said it was a more enjoyable and meaningful way to reconnect – discussing their widereaching capability, their efforts to protect the environment and a footprint that gives them the ability to assist anyone anywhere.

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A sabre truly at the cutting edge of rail engineering

specialist in high-performance new and refurbished components, Sabre Rail is at the forefront of services businesses rely upon to overhaul their rolling stock. Exhibiting at stand E40, the business provides important tailor-made solutions on anything mechanical, pneumatic or hydraulic. It can identify any long-running issues that cause problems for a customer and work out a way to get stock back on track. It stands by a well-received service which has a fast turnaround, and it delivers a variety of highly cost-effective solutions through listening carefully to client issues – with a track record that has seen its teams assist the likes of Bombardier and Pullman Rail.

A fast-growing cable of choice for rail

oldwing Cable, which exhibited at stand G31, is the authorised European distributor of Exane Cables. Exane Cables are fast becoming the cable of choice for rail projects across the world. These are low-smoke, zero-halogen cables used in rolling stock and infrastructure, created by Connecticut firm RSCC Wire and Cable Inc. At Railtex/Infrarail, staff discussed with visitors Goldwing’s product applicability to major infrastructure and projects – their cables having been used on the London Underground, as well as on Crossrail and the Northern Line extension. The main route to market for these cables includes some of the country’s leading wholesalers. Goldwing prides itself in being able to supply these customers quickly, so the end user avoids costly penalties. The business jumps into action even on last minute orders, sometimes getting a request at 4pm and being able to deliver for the next day.

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Supplier attracting interest with its cordless and futuristic solutions

onstruction tool manufacturer Hilti, which exhibited at stand F31, provides fixing and fastening solutions to businesses carrying out rail and civil engineering. Hilti has more than 1,000 staff based in the UK, and 30,000 worldwide. At Railtex/Infrarail their team spoke to customers who were keen to hear about the cordless tools they supply, as well as the futuristic Hilti EXO-01 exoskeleton – which helps its wearer carry out lightweight repetitive tasks with less fatigue. They work with a range of customers of all sizes, among the most notable being Network Rail, Siemens, Balfour Beatty and Babcock. Staff said they cemented their reputation with major industry businesses through excellent attention to health and safety, productivity and quick-todeploy rail specialists.

Wide range of services helping major companies reach their targets

he TenBroeke Group comprises both independent international advisory and engineering companies, focused on the delivery of major infrastructure projects. As part of a range of capabilities, they deliver full design services, systems engineering solutions and external finance consultations. Visitors met its representatives at stand H51. Its rail specialisms include rolling stock maintenance depots, stations (including platform extensions) and strategic rail freight sites. It is a leading provider of requirements management, security systems, detailed design of MEP, safety cases, application of common safety method (CSM), bid management as well as ICT and communications projects. Having well established this range of services in rail, it has contributed to work delivered to major clients including Network Rail and HS2.

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A high tech company that values faceto-face connections

xthus Instrumentation is a division of Variohm Eurosensor Limited. Exhibiting at stand J46, it provides sensors for bespoke applications as well as transducers and systems to measure displacement, force, torque and vibration. The business has built a network of suppliers from around the world in order to meet the rail industry’s demand for leading-edge technology solutions. It has a strong partnership with Riftek and offers a full range of rail-measuring gauges for wheelset monitoring – from wheel diameter and wheel profile to brake disc and back-to-back measuring. It also offers software solutions for equivalent conicity and dynamic scanning of full train vehicles running at speed. Railtex/Infrarail was a welcome opportunity for Ixthus, who was in part using the event to re-establish face-to-face connections within the industry – underlining the event’s importance as an opportunity to know who was new and who had moved in a busy and ever-evolving industry.

Specialist lifting of complex systems equipment, with zero downtime

leansoft, which was at stand R47, specialises in the field of lifting active systems equipment, and has been serving industry for more than 20 years. The business prides itself in causing zero downtime for production. At Railtex/Infrarail, it told those enquiring about its services how its teams can intervene in very complex and highly secure technical installations such as railway signalling control rooms, datacentres, military & defence command posts, energy and communication network (MSCs, POPs, HV substations), audio-visual control rooms, clean rooms and laboratories.

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Safety and control with globally recognised solutions

ne of the businesses at the forefront of access control and security solutions in the global market, dormakaba’s UK arm, dormakaba UK, shared how it helps its clients at Railtex/Infrarail. At stand Q17, they showed visitors the Kaba 20 “modular” series of lock cylinders which allow users to provide additional protection using security-controlled key registration. Applications include cab entrance doors, door controls, CCTV DVR and ETCS access panels, electrical cupboards, GPS test sockets, critical equipment enclosures and pantograph isolation switches. Also, on show at the exhibition was dormakaba’s enhanced padlock for trackside applications which has the approval of the LPCB (Loss Prevention Council Board) for its CEN rated padlocks.

High-standard structural assessments

esign & Analysis Ltd has been delivering structural design and analysis services to the industry since 2003. At stand H51, its team explained how it was experienced in all aspects of rolling stock structural assessments, meeting standards and requirements such as GMRT2100 and BSEN12663. The business manages work packages ranging from complete car bodies to small sensor brackets –performing proof, ultimate, crash and fatigue assessments using both FEA and manual methods. Over the past 10 years the business a developed an unrivalled capability to perform simulated crash analysis on passenger seats and tables using validated computerised crash test dummies.

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Smart camera experts come to NEC

isiting the exhibition at stand N64 was SeSys, provider of smart camera solutions to the rail sector. SeSys is a manufacturer of robust 4G/ LTE camera solutions (CCTV), providing self-contained camera systems for rail, CNI monitoring, security surveillance, disaster response, incident monitoring and for monitoring explosive or hazardous environments. At Railtex/Infrarail 2021, SeSys demonstrated how its thermal radiometry technology can be used for remote condition monitoring. The firm also presented its proven rail trespass mitigation solutions. SeSys’s award-winning 4G Torch Camera incorporates a high resolution camera (up to 12 MP), encrypted storage, router, battery back-up and PoE+ ethernet port, housed in a robust stainless steel enclosure. The Torch Camera can be installed by a single engineer and operational within minutes to deliver secure, live video stream or time-lapse images thereby enabling remote condition monitoring with the purpose of mitigating potentially hazardous or critical situations developing.

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Schaltbau, experts in train HVAC, toilets and doors, bring innovations to NEC

tand C67 welcomed Schaltbau Transportation UK (SBT-UK), the specialist maintainer and servicing supplier across a range of train systems. The firm is an industry leader in providing services for toilets, doors, interiors, power systems and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) on UK trains. It provides the solutions for the leading train operators, rolling stock companies and original equipment manufacturers. The company has the tools, expertise and knowledge to keep your trains on the lines and your passengers happy. SBT-UK also provides servicing for train door systems and HVAC modules, as well as train controls. Offering local repairs with local service SBT-UK’s teams can work at your depot or bring the product back their facility in Milton Keynes. They can repair, overhaul, and supply you with the spares and technical support you need to keep your trains running. The firm is an established partner of the Schaltbau group – major railway manufacturers and operators working throughout the world. It has a long history of providing specialist door and HVAC maintenance services- operating in the sector since 2002. SBT-UK is part of the Schaltbau Bode group. The companies of the Schaltbau Group supply complete level crossing systems, train formation

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and signal technology, door and boarding systems for buses, trains and commercial vehicles, sanitary systems and interior fittings for railway vehicles. SBT-UK is a service provider that is a front desk for all Schaltbau worldwide products which includes the Bode products such as automatic door and access systems for trains, buses and vans worldwide. The company provides project and product solutions by using a mixture of experience and best practice to support the Operators and OEMs as well as a wide range of rolling stock components both within its facilities in Central Milton Keynes and at your depots, keeping fleets in service. SBT-UK is based in Central Milton Keynes, at a 33,000 square foot facility, which includes a large stores area to supply and support all of the systems the firm looks after. The base includes an overhaul section where Schaltbau can overhaul HVAC units. This includes both component overhaul of actual HVAC units, but also the electronic controllers that manage those units and operate those units. The company also boasts an electrical section that does high power, high voltage testing, diagnoses of electronic issues, repair and overhaul.

SBT-UK is led by a senior team including Managing Director Stuart Kerr and Vice President Sales, Projects & Operations, Mike Harmer who both have extensive high-level experience in rail and associated industries. At Railtex/Infrarail SBT-UK co-exhibited with Schaltbau Machine Electrics (SEM) to showcase the wider Schaltbau Group products and services on offer to the UK market. SBT-UK focused on promoting its range of toilets, doors, interiors, power systems and HVAC solutions to visiting delegates from train operators, rolling stock businesses and original equipment manufacturers from across the industry. SME develops and manufactures contactors, snap action switches, connectors, train electrics and driver’s desks for rail applications. Its products are also used in industrial applications for renewable energy, e-mobility and automation. SME exhibited the IntelliArm driver console for the first time, as well as promoting a range of products and services to rail vehicle OEMs, maintainers and operators.

Learn more about Schaltbau and its specialist services at: https://www.schaltbau.com/en/ or get in touch by calling 01908 224140 or emailing sales@sbt-uk.com. railbusinessdaily.com

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Beyond the Main Exhibition: Supporting Programme Highlights

Darren Caplan, Chief Executive of RIA, addresses the conference at the opening ceremony

Andrew Stephenson, Minister of State at the Department of Transport, discusses HS2 and levelling up

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Noel Dolphin, UK Managing Director Furrer+Frey

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Delegates gather for an address at the exhibition’s Seminar Theatre

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16th International Exhibition of Railway Equipment, Systems & Services

14th International Railway Infrastructure Exhibition

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