VTM-compact

The VTM-compact offers an efficient and sustainable solution for eliminating rail defects – without costly rail replacement. Extremely flexible in terms of logistics and track width, it is suitable for a wide range of applications.

At the same time, the compact milling machine is the answer to the significantly increased interest among operators of industrial rail networks in more effective processing methods. This is because milling provides an optimal starting point for long-term, preventive rail maintenance. And the VTM-compact is ideal for particularly stressed sections – so-called hotspots. Because it stands for maximum performance, it repairs even severe rail defects with precision and efficiency.

Flexible in every respect

Adjustable for different track gauges (from narrow to broad gauge), the VTM-compact works on Vignol or grooved rails and on ballast tracks or slab tracks. This makes them the ideal solution for applications with more unusual track gauges, such as industrial tracks, port facilities, and mines. Lasers ensure precise positioning of the tool units. With a length of only 6.15 m and a width and height of approx. 2.20 m, it fits into all clearance profiles and can be seamlessly integrated into a wide variety of track environments.

100% safe, clean, and sustainable

Since the VTM-compact operates completely dust- and spark-free, it is particularly suitable for sensitive areas such as tunnels, bridges, petrochemical plants, and wood processing facilities – anywhere where fire protection is a top priority. The milling process and precise control prevent thermal damage and the formation of friction martensite. Removed chips are completely extracted during the milling process and collected in the chip bunker for disposal, eliminating the need for cleaning work, e.g., in tunnels.

High material removal capacity

The compact VTM-compact milling machine uses the counter-rotation milling method, in which the milling wheel rotates in the opposite direction to the direction of travel. This has several advantages: Despite its relatively low weight of just 16 tons (about half that of other milling machines), it achieves a material removal rate of up to 2 mm per pass. The rubber tires on the drive wheels also contribute to higher milling performance. In all-wheel drive mode, the drive power is distributed evenly to all four wheels, which provide more propulsion without slippage.

Simple logistics & fast on the track

Thanks to its compact design, the VTM-compact fits into a standard container (TEU-compatible) and can be transported to the site of operation by trailer, flatbed truck, or low-loader. There, it is ready for use within minutes thanks to a hydraulic ramp. A height-adjustable coupling ensures smooth connection to various transport systems – for quick deployment anywhere.

Product features at a glance

Adjustable track gauge 1,000–1,668 mm
For all types of rails, profiles, and superstructures
80% of the turnouts can be milled
Up to 2 mm material removal per pass
Working speed: approx. 180 m/h, max. 240 m/h
No fire hazard
Suitable for tunnels (no dust, no sparks)
No removal of track signaling components required
No obstruction of railroad crossings
For all common clearance profiles (Berlin small)
No regrinding unit required
Milling wheel diameter: 360 mm

References

Canadian National Railway: Milling on the Memphis–New Orleans main line Despite harsh conditions

The VTM-compact was used to mill a total of 4,080 meters of main track between Memphis and New Orleans. 47 milling cycles in 30 layers were performed. Despite extreme temperatures of over 43 °C, which caused brief overheating, the operation was successfully completed within the planned timeframe.

The VTM-compact proved to be the ideal solution for this demanding application. The project was completed on schedule despite difficult weather conditions.

Hamburg elevated railway: Track maintenance at the Barmbek depot Precise correction of track narrowing

A track narrowing is a reduction in the standard track gauge, i.e., the distance between the rails, which can be caused, for example, by overlapping weld seams and bending thresholds. This can lead to problems with tracking and operational safety. With a positive track correction of up to 2.5 mm per rail strand, i.e. a total of 5 mm in the track, the VTM-compact ensures that the target track gauge is restored. Efficient and compliant with standards.

Track narrowing: 1,417 mm (in places)
Six tracks were affected and had to be brought to the standard gauge of 1,435 mm.
3 layers were necessary
The alternative would have been a costly rail replacement.
The customer was very satisfied with the quick and easy solution to the problem.

Modetrans: Factory building in Poznan, Poland Restoration of track levelness

The pit railway used for the maintenance of rail vehicles had considerable differences in height over a distance of 100 meters. To compensate for this, 8 mm tracks were removed.

Elimination of contact fatigue and restoration of the transverse profile
Elimination of corrugations and severe irregularities in the longitudinal profile

Rapid transit line between downtown and the airport in Toronto Repair of severe rolling contact fatigue damage

On the double-track express line, high utilization on a 2.4 km section led to particularly severe rolling contact fatigue damage. Measurements were taken in advance and error locations analyzed for targeted milling work. despite tight construction spaces and limited access, 24 short night shifts were sufficient to completely repair the track and resume full-speed operation at 145 km/h.

Hamburg Port Authority, Germany Focus on deep rail defects

In the heart of Hamburg's busy port network, the VTM-compact was used to specifically eliminate deep rail defects – especially in head-hardened rails that are under constant mechanical stress. In combination with the SF02 rail milling truck, the VTM-compact took over the rail processing of particularly deep rail damage. In just three passes, up to 6.5 mm of material was removed without affecting the original rail profile. The compact design of the machine offered clear advantages, especially in an environment with tight radii, as is often the case in port areas.

The Hamburg Port Authority (HPA) was thoroughly impressed by the quality of the work, the high-performance removal, and the efficiency of the overall operation.