Engineered Polymer Sleeper (EPS) made of amalentic

The new standard in track construction

SUSTAINABLE. SAFE. RELIABLE.

Wooden sleepers have had their day. Not only is creosote harmful to health, but wooden sleepers also have a limited service life and can no longer withstand increasing loads and environmental influences such as heat and moisture. Traditional alternatives, such as concrete, have their limitations in certain application scenarios. This is where Engineered Polymer Sleepers (EPS) come in, offering a sustainable solution for tomorrow's mobility.  

The state-of-the-art production facility's electricity requirements are met entirely by green electricity, and integrated energy recovery systems ensure particularly resource-efficient manufacturing. EPS has been tested in accordance with international standards and combines the advantages of concrete, wooden, and plastic sleepers in a single product, providing a robust, durable, and environmentally friendly solution for tracks around the world. It consists of the innovative composite material amalentic, a consistent isotropic material mix that guarantees reliable product performance for decades. 

Environmentally friendly: use of secondary raw materials and 100% recyclability   

Project-specific customization options: resource-saving designs in the production process  

Powerful & durable: 

  • High compressive strength  

  • High creep resistance  

  • Almost no water absorption 

  • High electrical resistance 

  • High pull-out forces 

 

Increased safety on the track thanks to

  • Use of steel reinforcement 

  • Good track stability 

  • High dimensional stability 

  • Low thermal expansion coefficient 

EPS for a wide range of applications:

Track Sleepers

Turnout Sleepers

Bridge Beams

amalentic – the core of EPS

The material mixture was developed based on 168 requirements, which continue to grow, and around 330 internal tests. This mixture meets the highest industry standards while responding flexibly to customer needs. Comprehensive studies on the influence of temperature ensure consistent performance in all climate zones. Through its participation in ISO and AREMA committees, Vossloh actively contributes to shaping global standards for plastic sleepers.  

Composite material consisting of 100% recycled polymer, sand, and steel reinforcement; fully recyclable after an expected service life of approximately 50 years 

Thanks to amalentic, the use of harmful substances such as creosote is unnecessary; no contamination of waterways 

Resistant to different weather conditions, high resistance, and can be reconditioned and adapted on site 

Efficient power supply results in a significantly improved carbon footprint compared to conventional materials 

High resistance to UV radiation and moisture, contains integrated flame retardants to meet fire protection requirements 

Flexible design

The multifunctional tool concept at the Nowe Skalmierzyce plant allows for adaptations to almost any customer-specific requirement. From standard tracks and heavy haul lines to turnouts and bridges, the production process allows for bespoke solutions of a consistently high standard.  

 

  • Customized adjustments: length, shape, reinforcement, and fastening systems can be individually selected; suitable for heavy loads with up to 36 t axle load 
  • Precise dimensions: standard sleepers up to 3 m in length, switch sleepers from 2.2 to 5 m in 0.1 m increments, bridge beams with variable height dimensions 
  • Consistent geometry: low thermal expansion coefficient minimizes track gauge changes, steel reinforcement guarantees long-term stability and safety 
  • Time-saving installation: prefabricated holes for quick and efficient installation 

Rehabilitation and Maintenance

EPS are not only impressive in production, but also in practical use. They are easy to work with, easy to repair, and ensure a long-lasting stability – even under extreme conditions.  

 

  • Health is a top priority: no hazardous dust during mechanical processing (e.g. drilling, sawing, milling); no need for special protective equipment 
  • Easy on-site repair: faulty drill holes and major damage can be repaired on site without having to replace the sleeper; subsequent adjustment of the track gauge is possible 
  • Efficient time management: less machining on the construction site, faster installation, and reduced downtime  
  • Stable & sturdy: lateral profiling and recesses on the bottom of the sleeper improve track stability, especially in curves 

Proven integrated solution

EPS is compatible with a wide variety of fastening systems and has been successfully tested in accordance with DIN EN 13481-3.

 

 

Standards 

 

ISO 12856 Part 1-3, AREMA Chapter 30 Part 5, EN 13481-2, EN 13146 Part 1-10, Operational Suitability Testing DB/EBA Version 8, ProRail SPC00298    
Dimension

Standard sleepers and bridge beams up to 3 m in length, switch sleepers 2.2–5 m (0.1 m increments), > 5 m possible by coupling 

Bridge beams can be flexibly adjusted in height 

Service LifeApproximately 50 years, then 100% recyclable 
Materialamalentic composite material made from recycled polymer, sand, and additional steel reinforcement 
ProductionElectricity requirements covered by green electricity, energy-efficient, resource-saving