Getzner Implements Vibration Protection Solution in Ontario

Getzner implemented a vibration protection solution for the new track along the Weston GO Station in Ontario. The ballast mats installed protect the track superstructure from vibrations, preserve the ballast and minimize wear, thereby reducing maintenance costs.

Canadian rail operator Metrolinx installed and modernized the track through Weston GO Station in York, Ontario in preparation for the 2015 Pan American Games. The improvement is part of the Georgetown South Project (GTS), along which both freight trains and the Union Pearson Express run. This connects Toronto Pearson International Airport with Toronto. To protect neighboring residents, Metrolinx has developed a noise and vibration protection strategy for the construction and operation of the GTS – on the recommendation of the project’s Environmental Assessment study, the route is equipped with vibration protection. “The quality of Getzner’s ballast mats and the simple, cost-saving installation were what impressed. The solution ensures less wear to all superstructure components, reducing maintenance costs,” explains Andreas Denk, President of Getzner USA, Inc. Despite weather-related delays, Getzner installed the solution within a few days and on schedule – even when temperatures dropped to below zero and the completion date was brought forward by three weeks. Getzner attends to its North American customers from Charlotte, North Carolina.

Reducing Maintenance Costs
The Weston GO Station line passes through a densely populated area, including two 25-floor residences – vibration protection was a must. The resilient elastic ballast mats achieved the required effectiveness in a single layer. They were made-to-order and delivered in coordination with the construction progress.

The ballast mats made of Sylodyn® are developed and manufactured by Getzner itself. They noticeably minimize vibrations and noise, allowing rail operators and neighboring residents alike to reap the rewards. GTS is part of “The BIG Move”, which is fixed for 25 years and promises to improve transit links in the Toronto/Hamilton area. “This first project on a Metrolinx line is extremely important to us, as we were able to prove our quality,” says Andreas Denk. The huge demand for vibration protection is clear from Getzner USA, Inc.’s figures: 2014 was concluded with sales figures 15% above estimates.

Weston Road Station Fact Box:

Project name: Weston Road – Go Transit Station
Location: York, Ontario (CAN)
Vibration isolation: Getzner USA, Inc.
Operator: Go Transit/Metrolinx
Investor: Ontario, Government of Canada through the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund, Canada Strategic Infrastructure Fund, Greater Toronto/Hamilton
Solution: Ballast mats from Getzner Werkstoffe
Installation: January 2015
Completion of the line: Summer 2015
Material: 33,370 square feet; 1,312 feet track lengths
Other projects: New York City subway; Springhill, Oakville and Deux-Montagnes CN railroad lines, Ontario