The ÖBB Rail Cargo Group has revealed that winter testing, using a demo train, has confirmed that Digital Automatic Coupling is highly robust.

The award-winning Group describes Digital Automatic Coupling (DAC) as “a key technology for the future of European rail freight transport”. It automates the coupling process, connecting freight wagons mechanically and pneumatically (via compressed air lines for the brakes).

DAC replaces the manual screw coupling method, which is physically demanding and takes time.

DAC also includes continuous power and data lines.

The DAC demo train enables ÖBB Rail Cargo Group to test the DAC under real operating conditions, and to develop and prepare it for series production. Carrying out tests in Austria during winter – with temperatures as low as -15C, freezing rain and fresh snow – also enabled the Group to confirm that DAC works well in extreme weather conditions.

The demo train underwent intensive technical preparations, including integrating coupling systems from different manufacturers. It was then put into operation, which enabled testing of the interaction of mechanics, electrics and data transmission. The testing aims to help make the automatic coupling mechanically and pneumatically reliable, and in addition, to ensure that data and energy can be transmitted digitally along the length of the freight train.

The tests took place at Schwarzach-St. Veit station in Salzburg’s Pongau region, and focused on repeated mechanical coupling, electrical uncoupling via a button, and how well the air and data connections functioned. The train was parked in Böckstein for ten days, which simulated longer idle periods, which are common in rail freight operations. Snow penetrated all the train’s relevant components, which enabled the Group to identify potential weak points.

The Group, which is expanding the freight services that it runs, describes the preliminary results of the winter tests as “thoroughly positive”.

“The tests provide valuable insights for the further development of the technology and confirm that we are on the right track towards a Europe-wide standardised Digital Automatic Coupling. Each individual test series brings us a decisive step closer to a practical and robust solution for European rail freight transport. Close cooperation across Europe and joint implementation of this key technology are crucial to achieving success.”

Bettina Castillo, CEO of ÖBB Rail Cargo Group