ROBEL will be showcasing its new 34.02 clipping machine at InnoTrans 2012.
The new model includes a petrol engine, Fastclip work module and e-Clip module.
The patented tool for a quick and simple changing between the work processes for applying and removing Fastclips without the use of additional tools has been retained.
A powerful and precise hydraulic system is also still part of the machine, varying in degrees with regard to which work module is used.
Modular design
The new clipping machine can be used universally. Owing to the modular design, it can be transported more easily, is more manageable and ergonomically optimised as compared to similar machines.
Any 34.02 clipping machine consists of three basic components: work module, transverse travelling gear and power pack add up to a machine suited for any work task. As each of the various work modules and different energy units weighs around 70 kg (+/- 10 kg), they can be transported more easily than conventional clipping machines with masses from about 140 kg up to about 200 kg.
In addition, the power packs have been designed for easy stackability. The transverse travelling gear can easily be separated from the work module, so that three compact elements are left to be stored using as little space as possible.
The biggest advantage of the modular design is that different types of rail fastenings can be applied or removed on a work site or during a work shift with only a short interruption of work. Only the work module has to be changed. Switching between a combustion engine and an electric motor in response to time of day or environment – residential area, tunnel – is just as quick.
The work modules
Apart from the work modules for Fastclips and e-Clips that will be shown in Berlin, versions for FCX- and FE-Clips are being prepared. That means that suitable work modules and consequently a suitable clipping machine will be available when these types of clip are launched. Optionally available is a sleeper lifting device for F-type clips (Fastclip, FCX, FE) which have to be installed at a 90 degree angle to the rail.
The power packs
At the launch of the new range of models for the 34.02 clipping machine ROBEL will show the petrol power pack with an air-cooled four-stroke engine Honda GX200 with 4.1 kW at 3,600 rpm in combination with a Fastclip work module and one for e-Clips.
The engine has been encapsulated to reduce the level of noise considerably. An electric module with a 400 V/50 Hz rotary current motor is planned, other modules are being conceptualised.
Improved ergonomics
In addition to the separation of the two basic components power pack and work module, the basic divisibility of the 34.02 clipping machine has another, ergonomically important advantage: engine and work module are fully decoupled. This is made possible by the hydraulic transmission of power.
Apart from being connected hydraulically, the components are only connected by electric cables and rubber elements. This highly effective decoupling of vibrations considerably reduces the hand-arm vibrations transmitted by the operating handles.
Economic advantages
As power pack and work module can be combined freely, it is not necessary to purchase and maintain complete machines for work on track sections with other types of rail clip. This is particularly interesting in light of the new clip types FCX and FE. Their dispersion will naturally increase only step by step at first, but tracks being equipped with them will have to be treated appropriately and professionally from the outset. This challenge can be solved by simply combining a previously purchased power pack with a new work module. In addition, the space saved as a result of the machine’s divisibility and the stackability of the power packs has a positive economic impact.
Customer benefit
The mentioned characteristics distinguish the new 34.02 clipping machines from previously available machines. Thanks to their covering the newly developed machines are safer and less sensitive than other models.
