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Ground-breaking tamper officially launched

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Date

07 May 2020

Expertise

Asset management

We all know the traditional tamping machines, which are frequent guests on the tracks. Tamping machines capable of gathering high-quality data from the track and converting it into predictive information were nowhere to be seen up until now. We have developed an intelligent tamper together with System 7 that can learn to work by itself. With the investment in the Universal Tamper 4.0 we have next level tamping technology in-house. A new step towards a data-driven future.

Ground-breaking Tamping Machine

The Universal Tamper 4.0 is ground-breaking in several respects. Not only is the machine capable of learning to automatically tamp points on the basis of big data, the machine also requires fewer people to operate. Other advantages: there is a 7 dB noise reduction in operating mode and the machine is environmentally friendly because it has a 4-stage motor. Furthermore the machine is flexible. It is a universal machine that is able to tamp straight track and switches.

Sensors

The machine records the position of the tracks ánd provides information about the density of the ballast below the sleepers. It contains special sensors that measure the force applied by the tamping mechanisms to compress the ballast.

“The machine provides us with lots of data about the job done. What is even more spectacular, is that it can tell us something about the quality of the track” Ed Schaufeli, Manager of Strukton Rail Equipment’s Technical Department

Route Mapping

The data collected by the Universal Tamper 4.0 enables railway operators to much better plan maintenance. This was not possible up until today.

Cooperation with System7

The Universal Tamper 4.0 is a new type of tamping machine with next-step tamping technology. Strukton Rail worked closely together with System7, the supplier, to develop the machine. The innovations incorporated into the machine were developed in coproduction by System7 and Strukton. System7 now applies many of them to new machines as standard features. We may call ourselves a technological and innovative frontrunner and partner of System7.

In addition to the innovative actions the machine is capable of performing, the machine’s design is striking as well. Interested? Watch the video!

Universal Tamper 4.0

Frequently asked questions

Find answers to frequently asked questions here.

What is sustainable asset management?

Sustainable asset management balances performance, cost efficiency and environmental impact across the entire lifecycle of infrastructure. It focuses on extending asset life, minimising failures and reducing CO₂ emissions through smarter maintenance planning and responsible material use. Modern approaches increasingly integrate predictive maintenance and sustainability goals to improve long‑term resilience. The POSS monitoring system and Eurailscout’s inspection trains are examples that boost sustainable asset management.

How does data support asset management?

Data is the foundation of smart maintenance. By collecting condition data from inspections, sensors and monitoring systems, infrastructure managers gain accurate insight into the health of their assets. When combined with analytics, software and AI, this data enables predictive maintenance frameworks that reduce downtime, improve reliability and support informed, long‑term decision‑making.

What are the benefits of predictable maintenance?

Predictive maintenance helps prevent unexpected failures, avoids costly emergency repairs and keeps infrastructure available at the lowest operational impact. By identifying deviations at an early stage, repairs can be scheduled during planned maintenance windows—often at night—reducing disruptions and improving asset performance. Studies show predictive models significantly reduce unplanned outages and improve safety across transport networks.

How does asset management support infrastructure renewal?

Data‑driven asset management provides an understanding of the condition and remaining lifespan of existing structures and assets. This insight enables infrastructure owners to plan renovations and renewals more efficiently, allocate investments wisely and reduce environmental impact by avoiding premature replacement. Advanced asset analytics help organisations make smart decisions and prioritise upgrades where they deliver the most value.

For which types of infrastructure is asset management relevant?

Asset management applies to rail infrastructure, roads, tunnels, waterways and all other civil structures where safety, availability and sustainability are essential. Whether managing complex rail networks or urban mobility systems, modern asset management frameworks—often supported by AI and predictive analytics—strengthen performance and ensure future‑proof infrastructure across Europe.

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