CE Declaration of Conformity with Künstler Bahntechnik GmbH
European regulations are increasingly influencing the procurement processes for points systems and the associated point control systems. Particularly relevant in this context are the Low Voltage Directive and the Machinery Directive, the implementation of which must be demonstrated to the supervisory authorities in accordance with Section 2 of the BOStrab basic rules.
For the construction of the new track system for the Sanderring wye, Würzburger Straßenbahn (WSB), in close consultation with its technical supervisory authority, required potential suppliers to ensure full compliance of the track system, including points with point machines and point control, with the Machinery Directive.
The 2020 tender therefore required the submission of a ‘concept for implementing a conformity assessment procedure’. Künstler Bahntechnik GmbH (KBT) was able to win HANNING & KAHL as a partner for the conformity procedure, with KBT acting as the general contractor.
tram.news: What led to the development of the concept for a conformity assessment procedure for Würzburg transport provider WSB?
Nicola Klein: As part of WSB’s procurement process in the 2019 business year, we were approached for the first time to conduct an overall assessment of a wye and corresponding point control based on the European regulations. We initially considered outsourcing the task to an external technical documentation service provider. However, on account of the many technical aspects, which included design details, we ultimately decided to devise our own solution.
tram.news: Why did you choose HANNING & KAHL as partner, and how did you find the partnership?
Nicola Klein: We had already worked well with HANNING & KAHL over many years. One important aspect in the selection process was that each partner contributes to the overall project and that all requirements are competently covered. Mutual trust and competence were also essential for joint project success. So, working with HANNING & KAHL was the obvious choice.
tram.news: How did commissioning and acceptance of Sanderring wye go from your point of view?
Nicola Klein: The purely technical track construction aspects of the project were completed on schedule and did not pose any major challenges. However, we had little influence on the timing of the tests required by TAB/TÜV in accordance with European regulations and the state of the art, so we had to find a compromise solution together, which was supported by all those involved in the project, in particular WSB and their technical supervisory authority. In the end, we were successful together – but the process was exciting and challenged the entire project team.
tram.news: Has this holistic approach been established in other cities?
Nicola Klein: Not yet, but we are talking with other cities. Several projects in Würzburg have already been successfully realized in line with this concept like the main station, Dallenbergbad and most recently Sanderau. New findings from fatigue strength calculations have been incorporated into the point design and construction.
tram.news: Where do you see the future of Künstler Bahntechnik (KBT)?
Nicola Klein: As part of the Fehlings group, it is KBT’s ambition to offer customers bespoke solutions, ensuring the supply and dismantling of track construction sites and achieving an outstanding position in track construction through innovation and reliable delivery.
tram.news: We look forward to continuing our working relationship and thank you for the interview.
The interview was conducted by Hans-Joachim Pütsch, Head of Customer Management, Infrastructure Division.
