Coupler systems
Coupler systems are systems that couple up the wagon-shunting systems to the wagons. There are several methods:
Lateral chain system
Maximum gross trailing load: 500 tons.
The simplest system is the chain system. If great shunting precision is less important a chain system can be chosen in the form of a steel cable integrated in the chain coupler, which follows the track along with the chain on rollers.
The chain system can simply manually be coupled to the towing hook of the wagon and is also the most inexpensive coupler system.
With this system the chain coupler can pass the wagons and switches, and also the wagons can pass the system.
Wheel-set-trolley on auxiliary track: ‘Radsatzschubwagen’
Maximum gross trailing load: 500 tons and special version: 1,000 tons
A third possibility is the so-called wheel-set-trolley system. The trolley wagon runs on an auxiliary track between the rails. It pushes with (double) push rolls against the wheels of the wagon. A great advantage of this system is that coupling up and off can be done automatically. Also with this system the wheel-set-trolley can pass the wagons. And also the wagons can pass the system. However, this trolley cannot pass switches.
Lateral pickup trolley
Maximum gross trailing load: 500 tons.
If placing the wagons requires greater precision, or if the cable must be integrated into the pavement, the lateral pickup trolley is recommended. This wagon runs on a profile guidance beside the track. With the adjustable draw bar the shunting system can simply manually be coupled to the wagon. The guidance can be installed into the so-called paved-in track. With this system the pickup trolley can pass the wagons and switches, and also the wagons can pass the system.
Buffer truck
Maximum gross trailing load: ca. 4,000 tons
With this system a buffer truck is coupled to the central towing hook of the wagon. With this application the buffer truck can be coupled up and off automatically. The buffer truck moves on the same track as the wagons and is mostly applied at dead-end tracks. With this system the buffer truck cannot pass the wagons, but it can pass the switches.
This system can also be equipped with a so-called Lateral Exit Mechanism (LEM). By means of the LEM, the buffer truck leaves the track cross-wise. Which means that also here a ‘continuing track’ is created. The wagons can pass the system.
Wagon shunting systems require little maintenance, are energy and cost saving, efficient and safe.
