Blog

Deutsche Bahn ICE high-speed train on an electrified railway line in a rural area
June 10, 2026
4 min read

What exactly is "Indusi"?

Indusi (Inductive Train Control) is one of the best-known train control systems in German-speaking railway operations. It monitors signals and speeds, alerts train operators in critical situations, and can automatically intervene in the event of rule violations. Although the original Indusi technology is now largely incorporated into the PZB system, the term remains widely used in the railway industry. In this article, you’ll learn how Indusi works, what tasks the system performs, and how it differs from modern solutions like ETCS.

Two people in suits shaking hands, symbolizing a business agreement or partnership
June 3, 2026
4 min read

How new and smaller companies in the rail industry can benefit from B2B marketplaces

Digital B2B marketplaces offer small and new companies in the rail industry additional opportunities to source materials, control costs, and gain market transparency. They facilitate access to used rail equipment, support more flexible procurement, and can help companies establish new contacts and unlock business opportunities within the industry. Learn more now and read the blog post.

View of a blue ETCS button in the cab of a locomotive
May 20, 2026
3 min read

Rail 101: What is ETCS?

ETCS (European Train Control System) is the Europe-wide train control system that is replacing older national signal box and signaling systems. It provides standardized, digital train control, thereby increasing safety and efficiency in rail transport. In this blog post, we explain how ETCS works, what levels there are, and why it is crucial for the future of European rail transport.

A freight train with a red locomotive travels along an electrified railway line through the countryside in the summer
May 13, 2026
6 min read

The Guide: How to successfully sell rail vehicles

The sale of used rail vehicles involves much more than just marketing. From technical evaluation and documentation to a legally compliant handover, there are numerous factors that determine success. This guide provides a step-by-step overview of how the sale of locomotives, freight cars, and multiple-unit trains can be structured and carried out efficiently and profitably.

A worker inspects a tamping machine on the tracks during maintenance work
April 29, 2026
3 min read

Rail 101: How does a tamping machine actually work?

How do tracks stay perfectly aligned over the long term? Track tamping machines are the key to precise railway maintenance. They correct even the slightest deviations in the track bed, ensuring safety, ride comfort, and a durable infrastructure. Here, modern technology meets maximum efficiency in railway construction. Learn more now and become a ballast tamping machine expert! 

A person inspects a 3D printer with a torch through an opening whilst it is in operation, focusing on the technical components
April 22, 2026
3 min read

3D printing for the rail sector by DB Fahrzeuginstandhaltung GmbH

DB Fahrzeuginstandhaltung GmbH’s 3D printing service offers companies, for the first time, certified and field-proven access to additive manufacturing. On railauction.plus, innovative 3D printing services are provided, ranging from component analysis to on-demand production – including for obsolete, rare or urgently needed spare parts. Manufacturing in accordance with the DIN EN ISO/ASTM 52920 standard, combined with the use of railway-approved materials, enables a flexible, cost-effective and reliable supply of spare parts. Benefits: rapid availability, reduced storage costs, digital provision and targeted support throughout the entire supply chain. Find out more now!

A broom symbolically sweeps across digital data, representing data cleansing and data quality in a digital environment
April 15, 2026
6 min read

Sales obstacle no. 1: Missing material data

Many opportunities in the rail industry fall through due to a lack of data: without clear information on the manufacturer, part number, condition or similar details, spare parts, components, vehicles and the like remain unsellable. Those who organise their product data in a structured way stand out from the crowd, speed up sales and achieve better prices – find out how to do this and why data quality is becoming a key driver of sales.

Gelber U-Bahn-Zug fährt in eine U-Bahn-Station ein
April 1, 2026
4 min read

Underground, suburban rail and trams – How rail transport operators can benefit from railauction.plus

Find out how railauction.plus is making urban rail transport more efficient, sustainable and interconnected. The digital marketplace opens up new opportunities for metro, suburban rail and tram operators in terms of procurement, reuse and international trade. Read the full blog post now and discover the specific benefits!

Unscharfes Bild von vielen Menschen, die sich in einer hellen Messehalle bewegen
March 26, 2026
2 min read

InnoTrans 2026: We'll be there again

We’ll be back at InnoTrans in Berlin in 2026! Our focus: efficient spare parts and inventory management, digital marketing, reducing inventory levels, and sustainable use of materials. Let’s work together to develop concrete solutions for your rail supply chain. Schedule an appointment with us for innotrans today!

A glass sphere featuring a plant motif and a sustainability symbol on a moss-covered background, with flowing lines and a blurred natural scene in the background.
March 18, 2026
4 min read

EU Circular Economy Act – What does this mean for used railway parts and components?

The Circular Economy Act aims to strengthen the circular economy in Europe, reduce waste, promote the use of secondary raw materials, and drive more sustainable production and consumption patterns. For the rail industry, the law could open up new opportunities in the spare parts market through targeted reuse, lifecycle management, and improved documentation of used components. Learn more in this blog post.