Fraunhofer IML and Wecon Launch Project ‘FlexRailUnit’

The Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics IML and Wecon GmbH from Ascheberg have jointly initiated the research and development project ‘FlexRailUnit’. The goal of the project is to develop a flexible, modular loading unit for highly available standard container wagons in rail freight transport. This aims to utilize the loading volume and high payloads of traditional rail cars while leveraging the advantages of modular load carriers in rail transport.

(Dortmund/Ascheberg) A central aspect is the maximum utilization of the rail clearance profile while simultaneously separating the wagon and the superstructure. The design allows for easy decoupling of the wagon and superstructure module for changes in requirements, maintenance, and repair purposes, and aims for the ability to operate in single wagon traffic. At the same time, work is being done on developing a simplified approval process.

The project consortium consists of Wecon GmbH as the coordinator and main responsible party for the development and construction of the prototypes, Fraunhofer IML for scientific support and the approval concept, and Captrain Deutschland GmbH as an associated partner for practical tests. With a planned duration of 30 months and funded by the federal program Future Rail Freight Transport, two tested prototypes of the FlexRailUnit, a testing scheme for simplified rail approval, and scientific publications are to be produced.

The FlexRailUnit offers numerous advantages for various stakeholders along the supply chain:

• Shippers benefit from using shorter loading tracks and the ability to move higher tonnages on existing infrastructure.
• Wagon lessors can increase the utilization of their freight cars, thereby gaining competitive advantages and additional revenues.
• Industrial companies with rail connections gain flexibility through adaptable transport modules.

The modular separation of freight cars and load carriers, as well as an accelerated approval process, also enable significantly shorter innovation cycles – a real advancement for the development of specialized logistics solutions.

Presentation of the Project at transport logistic

Compared to traditional rail cars, the FlexRailUnit offers more flexibility while maintaining operational capability – a crucial impetus for single wagon traffic and the desired shift of transport to environmentally friendly rail. The Fraunhofer IML will present the project from June 2 to 5 at transport logistic in Munich in Hall B1, Stand 501/602.

Photo: © Wecon