Interlocking equipment
Buy used interlocking technology on railauction.plus
Interlocking technology is an essential part of the railway infrastructure and ensures the safe and efficient control of train traffic. Whether mechanical signal boxes or ultra-modern digital signal boxes - the technology behind the signal boxes has been shaping railway operations for decades. At railauction.plus you can regularly buy a wide range of used interlocking technology, from smaller spare parts for interlockings to relay interlockings and modern electronic interlockings. Buying at railauction.plus is not only quick and easy, but you can also count on a tested, Europe-wide network of suppliers. Find out more about your benefits here.
Structure of an interlocking
An interlocking consists of various technical components that interact with each other to control train traffic. The lever bank and mechanical wire pulls are classic elements of a mechanical interlocking, while electromechanical interlockings combine electrical and mechanical systems. With the introduction of relay interlockings and pushbutton interlockings, operation was simplified as points and signals are switched electrically. In modern systems such as electronic interlockings (ESTW), computers take over the complete control. Particularly innovative technologies such as the digital interlocking utilise IT-supported networks for even more precise control.
The different types of interlocking
The world of signal boxes is diverse and ranges from traditional systems to digital innovations:
- Mechanical signal boxes: These classic signal boxes rely on levers that are connected to signals and points via wire cables. They are robust and can still be found in older railway stations.
- Electromechanical signal boxes: A mixture of mechanical and electrical components and the further development of the mechanical signal box in the 19th century. Examples such as Gaselan interlockings from the GDR or the widespread E43 standardised interlocking are typical of this type of construction, which enable greater ranges and more flexibility.
- Relay interlockings: With the introduction of relay interlockings (RSTW), control was revolutionised by electrical circuits. These interlockings, such as the Soviet EZMG interlocking (EZMG = Elektritscheskaja zentralisazija malych stanzij Germanii = electric centralised interlocking for small railway stations in Germany), are compact and offer greater reliability compared to their predecessors. In the meantime, however, most relay interlockings have been replaced by electronic interlockings. However, relay interlockings have proven to be flexible, especially when it comes to conversions.
- Pushbutton interlockings: These are operated by pushbuttons that trigger signals and routes. A dispatcher is required for this operation. Such interlockings are often used in medium-sized Deutsche Bahn stations. Pushbutton interlockings are still one of the most frequently used types of interlocking, but are increasingly being replaced by modern electronic interlockings (ESTW).
- Electronic interlockings (ESTW): Computer-controlled systems such as the ESTW offer centralised control and a higher degree of automation. This technology is ideal for busy railway stations and complex train networks.
- Digital interlockings (DSTW): The future of interlocking technology lies in digital solutions that rely on IT technology and networking. They enable more precise control and simplified maintenance. In the future, digital interlockings will replace the numerous types of interlockings of different designs and generations. In contrast to electronic interlockings (ESTW), the control commands are transmitted digitally via fibre optic cables to the points and signals. Well-known manufacturers include Siemens and Thales.
Whether in a railway station or along an infrequently used train route - the requirements and locations determine the choice of the right interlocking. The signal boxes are just as varied as the rail network and all have their own advantages.
At railauction.plus, you can find used signal boxes for every need - from historical systems such as mechanical signal boxes to modern solutions such as digital signal boxes. Benefit from our selection and our expertise in the field of interlocking technology. Get started now on our marketplace and register for free.
