Liebherr-Transportation Systems was commissioned by German Verkehrsgesellschaft, Frankfurt am Main GmbH (VGF), to equip 40 low-floor “R” series tramway cars with new hydraulic actuators for bogie steering. The contract includes development and construction of the actuators as well as supply of a total of 240 actuators. The low-floor tramway cars are used on all tram lines in Frankfurt.
The newly-designed actuators are distinguished by their robustness and fatigue strength. Only very low elastic deformation occurs during heavy acceleration in vertical direction owing to the higher stiffness of the actuators. The ride comfort is thereby improved and heavy vibrations on the wheel and track are reduced.
Following a successful initial installation and entry into service, series delivery is to start in mid-2016. The retrofit will be carried out by VGF itself, while Liebherr-Transportation Systems will service the systems and their components.