High-speed trains – modular systems for maximum performance

Take a look at our product portfolio!

Air supply systems supply the compressed air required by the braking system and other subsystems. The key components for high-speed applications are screw compressors 'ScrewSupply' or oil-free compressors 'PistonSupply' and adaptive control air dryers 'DrySupply'.

High-speed trains require high-performance bogie equipment. High-performance brake discs and pads 'UltraDisc HP' and 'UltraPad Extreme', compact brake calipers 'WheelAct' and 'AxleAct', eddy-current brakes 'EddyAct' and electromagnetic track brakes 'MagnetAct' bring the train to a halt rapidly and safely, whatever speed it is traveling at.

Knorr-Bremse’s friction portfolio features our Ultrapad sintered brake pads which have been specially developed for high-speed applications. The ISOBAR and Flexpad are among the key members of the high-performance 'Brake Pads family'.

The brake control system on high-speed trains is responsible for blending the different braking systems. The flexible 'FlexControl Modular' and the Modular Magnetic Track Brake Control 'MagnetControl' cover a wide range of applications. Bogie equipment monitoring systems are also a must for high-speed trains. The PantoControl raises and lowers the pantograph and keeps it precisely positioned against the overhead lines while the vehicle is in motion.

Sanding systems can make a significant contribution to reducing braking distances. Systems for high-speed applications comprise sand dosing systems, sand pipe heaters, sand level monitors, sand boxes, sand box covers and sand flow sensors.

Excellent visibility is particularly important for the drivers of high-speed trains. Windscreen wiper and wash systems for high-speed applications comprise wiper drives, arms and blades, control units, operating controls, washer water tanks, washer pumps and rain sensors.

At speeds of 300 km/h or more, train entrance system must be capable of withstanding enormous pressures. IFE door systems combine safety and comfort even at very high speeds. Train entrances can be fitted with anti-trap obstacle detection systems, as well as sliding, pivoting or folding steps. And the aluminum “sandwich” doors provide optimized acoustic and thermal insulation.

Train Control and Management Systems (TCMS) are the technological nerve center of modern high-speed trains, connecting the subsystems to each other and to the central vehicle control system. They are specifically tailored to a wide range of different customer requirements. The WSP3 expansion module seamlessly integrates the wheel slide protection system with the TCMS. The TDS Defense in Depth Threat Detection Solution detects cyberthreats in their early stages.

Whatever the outside weather, high-speed train passengers expect a comfortable on-board environment. Sophisticated and increasingly eco-friendly roof-mounted and roof-integrated HVAC systems ensure that this expectation is met.

High-speed trains rely on a huge array of electro-mechanical and electrical control components . Electronic components such as contactors, disconnectors and resistors are always designed to meet each train’s individual requirements. The modular Smart Integrated Functional Unit (SIFU) raises the bar by integrating high voltage components with a smart monitoring and control system.

Sanitary systems for high-speed trains are available in a wide variety of configurations, from fully integrated multipurpose cubicles to individual compact WC modules. A worldwide service network provides rapid, efficient maintenance and repair services, and the systems can also be equipped with condition-based maintenance (CBM) functions if required.

Coupling Systems are complex multi-purpose systems that join up high-speed trains, coupling their mechanical, pneumatic and electrical components. Out on the track, they check, manage and control tractive forces while at the same time compensating for relative movements between cars. Automatic center buffer couplers are employed in the form of front couplers on high-speed trains.

Against the backdrop of globalization and urbanization, and with a view to greater energy efficiency and safety, digitalization is adding new functionalities such as camera-based environment sensing and obstacle detection (Rail Vision) that underpin the pre-eminent role of rail transportation. And Knorr-Bremse’s digital solutions are paving the way.

Every high-speed train operator has its own unique profile and equally individual service requirements for the maintenance, overhaul and repair of its vehicle subsystems. A service package tailored to the customer’s specific requirements is thus nothing short of essential. Discover more about RailServices .