PKP Cargo : Contract concluded for supply of brake blocks to PKP CARGO

On December 20, PKP CARGO S.A. signed a contract for the supply of LL-type composite brake blocks (low friction coefficient) with Knorr-Bremse Systemy Kolejowe Polska Sp. z o.o. The products are destined for the conversion of used freight cars. With this move, the largest Polish rail carrier is gradually adapting its rolling stock to the future requirements of the European Union relating to interoperability and at the same time reducing the impact of noise on the environment.

By implementing an acoustic upgrade program for its existing freight cars, PKP CARGO S.A. is progressively replacing the cast-iron brake blocks with LL-type composite blocks. The program of modernization, which has already covered approximately 1,400 cars, is a response to the future requirements of the recently amended technical specification of interoperability regarding the noise emitted by rolling stock (TSI Noise), not only for new freight cars, but also for the existing freight rolling stock. The contract with Knorr-Bremse governs supplies of LL-type composite blocks to PKP CARGO for over 10,000 cars of various types, equating to some 16 percent of the transport company's cars. To cover part of the cost of purchase and replacement of the blocks (about 20% of eligible costs), PKP CARGO has received European Union funding from the 'Connecting Europe' CEF program.

'PKP CARGO has embarked on the intensive renewal of its existing rolling stock. Concern for high standards of customer service and protection of the environment has led us to fit wagons previously equipped with cast iron brake blocks, with modern LL-type composite blocks, which significantly reduce noise during braking. I am convinced that the brake block replacement program in a given number of cars will be completed by us within the deadline, and while meeting new EU requirements in this regard, we will also strengthen our presence on the European rail transport market,' said Witold Bawor, Member of the Board in charge of Operations of PKP CARGO S.A.

'We are very pleased that such a significant railway carrier as PKP CARGO has chosen our company, specializing, among other things, in the supply of brake systems and components for rail vehicles. I hope that thanks to modern, UIC-compliant LL-type brake blocks made of IB116* material, manufactured by Icer Rail S.L., part of the Knorr-Bremse Group, PKP CARGO will quickly be able to adapt its rolling stock to interoperability standards,' said Jacek Biłas, Chairman of the Board of Knorr-Bremse Systemy Kolejowe Polska Sp. z o.o.

The contract for supply of Icer Rail IB116* brake blocks will be implemented between 2017 and 2020.

Photo: Witold Bawor, Grzegorz Fingas, Jacek Biłas.