Complete noise protection solution with the combined STRAILwave product range for reactivated tracks

Facts

Place: Nordhorn (Germany)
Period: 2019
Client: Bentheimer Eisenbahn AG
Products: Rail web damper, IP, mSW 360
Length/quantity: approx. 240 m

Advantages

Rail web dampers: Quick and easy installation, track maintenance unaffected, installation even during short track closures
IP: Just 1.3 m above the rail head, fast approval for construction (no foundation needed), resistant to vibration-induced material fatigue
mSW 360: Just 380 mm above the rail head, no visual obstruction for residents and passengers, no planning approval needed

Project description

At the beginning of July 2019, Bentheimer Eisenbahn AG reactivated the railway section between Bad Bentheim, Nordhorn, and Neuenhaus for local passenger services. This marked the reconnection of Nordhorn to the rail network 45 years after it was shut down.

The reactivation required not only the repair of the tracks, but also the consideration of noise protection for a new residential area and adjacent recreational areas. One critical section led over a canal bridge.

To meet the specific requirements of this section, a combination of three STRAILwave noise protection products was used:

Rail web dampers
IP – Infill panels
mSW 360 mini noise barrier

Planning, organization and installation were carried out entirely by Bentheimer Eisenbahn AG itself. Installation was carried out quickly in three main steps and was completed in just a few weeks:

Installation of rail web dampers: Four fitters installed 240 meters in just a single shift.
Simultaneous installation of the IP and preparation of the mSW 360: While the infill panels were being installed, the ballast work and installation of the fastening structure for the mSW 360 took place.
Installation of mSW 360: Lastly, the elastomer elements of the mini noise barrier wall were installed.

A road-rail excavator was used to facilitate and speed up the Installation. This allowed up to four elements per hour to be installed by three fitters on both the IP and the mSW 360.

The smooth installation and fast project execution led to the punctual opening of the route on July 7, 2019. Bentheimer Eisenbahn AG and all those involved were very satisfied with the solution, especially with regard to the low visual impact and maximum noise protection effect.