A reliable railway does not begin at the rail — it begins underground. If rainwater and seepage are to drain away in a controlled manner, the drainage network alongside the track has to remain clear and fully functional at all times. Once that network becomes blocked, water backs up in the track formation and so-called wet beds develop: softened areas in the track bed that compromise the geometric stability of the track and, in the worst case, result in temporary speed restrictions or costly repairs.
This is precisely where our most recent project came in. On behalf of DB InfraGO AG, our Structural Engineering division cleaned and fully inspected the drainage network along the line near Aulendorf — with the clear aim of preventing wet beds before they can form.
Across a total drainage network length of 3,500 metres, we jetted and surveyed the drainage channels within a closed section of line. The challenge: parts of the network showed blockage levels of up to 100 per cent — individual sections were completely silted up and had to be cleared before any inspection was possible. Following high-pressure jetting, a camera survey documented the condition of every section, giving the client a sound basis for planning further maintenance.
Since the works took place exclusively within a closed section, road access to the site was not possible. Personnel, equipment and materials therefore reached the worksite by rail: for this purpose, Klefenz hired an engineering train from BM – Bahndienste. Over ten shifts, a team of five Klefenz staff was on site to work through the entire network reliably within the available track closures.
With the successful completion of the works, the drainage network in the affected section is fully operational once again. Water can drain away in a controlled manner, the risk of new wet beds forming is significantly reduced, and the structural condition of the track body is protected for the long term.
The project at Aulendorf underlines once again what Klefenz is capable of in the rail environment — from rail-borne logistics through to expert execution under demanding conditions. As a reliable partner to DB InfraGO AG, we help to keep rail infrastructure safe, stable and fit for purpose.
Whether it is a demanding construction project or a professional perspective – Klefenz stands for experience, reliable collaboration and a clear commitment to quality. If you would like to realise a project or become part of our company, we look forward to speaking with you and taking the next step together.
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