The largest Dutch rail yard, Kijfhoek, is now fully automated. Siemens Mobility completed a 2021 project worth 110 million euros, implementing a system that increases operational efficiency and reduces handling times.
Siemens Mobility carried out the project on the instructions of Dutch infrastructure manager ProRail. “The facility now in full operation marks an important milestone. Now fully renewed, our freight yard facility near Rotterdam is not only fast and efficient, it also strengthens its position as a key freight hub connecting the port of Rotterdam with other European industrial centers”, explains Helga Cuijpers, a regional director at ProRail.
Image: © Siemens Mobility
The rail yard improvement includes the implementation of the “Trackguard Cargo MSR32” system. It “delivers comprehensive yard automation, featuring advanced route and speed control units, retarders, and propelling systems, alongside radio-based integration for precise humping locomotive control”, explains Siemens Mobility.
As a result, the system optimises operations across the board at Kijfhoek, starting at train arrival to departures. Kijfhoek is an important component of the Dutch rail network. It is located just outside of Europe’s biggest port, Rotterdam. It also features strong connectivity to European inland destinations. In terms of infrastructure, Kijfhoek boasts 14 arrival tracks, 41 classification tracks and 12 stabling tracks.
Parking fees on rail yards in the Netherlands are high compared to those in neighbouring countries. In a positive turn for the Dutch rail freight sector, ProRail is set to decrease those fees by 13% to 43%.