Solutions for the Future of Norwegian Railways
As a leading provider of technical infrastructure solutions and products, Følsgaard recently arranged an introduction day for Baneservice AS, Norway's largest railway contractor with an annual turnover of 2.4 billion NOK. The meeting focused on a range of critical technical and environmental challenges within the railway industry, with presentations on Følsgaard's solutions in cable accessories, automation, and power technology.
Representatives from both Følsgaard and Baneservice, including ten project managers from the signaling, low-voltage, and catenary departments, attended to engage in in-depth discussions about future needs and requirements in the industry. Topics discussed included:
- Halogen-free products: The discussion focused on Baneservice's requirement for 100% halogen-free products. Følsgaard demonstrated how their product portfolio could meet these environmental requirements and contribute to a safer and more sustainable environment.
- Environmental Product Declarations (EPD): Emphasis was placed on the necessity of EPDs in public tenders, where it is now required that at least 30% of the assessment be based on environmental factors. Følsgaard highlighted their preparations to meet these new demands, which include documentation of the product's environmental impact throughout its lifecycle.
- Special cables and cable degradation: Følsgaard addressed specific technical challenges that Baneservice has faced, such as water ingress in cables leading to short circuits in cold temperatures. Solutions to improve cable splicing and avoid such issues in the future were discussed.
The meeting revealed a strong need for technical innovation and improved environmental standards in the railway industry, and Følsgaard is well-positioned to meet these challenges. As a result of the meeting, Følsgaard has already received several inquiries about products like special cables and transformers and has recently processed an order for 3500 meters of special cable for Baneservice.
This meeting confirms both parties' commitment to advancing sustainable and technically advanced solutions in the Norwegian railway industry.