The Kijfhoek marshalling yard near Rotterdam, hailed as Europe’s hub, plays a vital role in connecting the port of Rotterdam with industrial zones across the continent. To accommodate future growth in freight volumes, Siemens Mobility embarked on a colossal modernization project for the 50-hectare site, featuring 14 entry sidings, 41 sorting sidings, and 12 stabling sidings. The magnitude of the project goes beyond its sheer size, with unique challenges such as accommodating cargo with excess width and navigating locomotive changes during the journey.
In overcoming these challenges, DB Cargo, leveraging its expertise in transporting retarders, successfully executed the inaugural just-in-time special transport with six flat wagons via the Bad Bentheim – Oldenzaal crossing in August. The intricately planned initiative aims for monthly transports until late summer 2024, with each convoy consisting of an average of six to seven wagons. This strategy will result in the transportation of 51 retarders, accompanied by the necessary hydraulic units, within a single year.
Image source: https://www.dbcargo.com/rail-de-en/logistics-news/DB-Cargo-transports-track-brakes-12569200