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Record order for BT-Systems

High-tech for Austria's tunnelling infrastructure

 

BT-Systems GmbH has been awarded the contract for Austria's largest switchgear project to date. In the coming years, we will be supplying the tunnel infrastructure along the S6 motorway, among others, with state-of-the-art switching technology. The contract was awarded to us by PKE Verkehrstechnik GmbH, a leading provider of electrotechnical solutions with a focus on tunnelling and traffic engineering, and covers several major tunnel projects in Austria, with the main focus being on the Semmering tunnel chain.

Customised switching technology 
For BT-Systems, this latest major order to equip the tunnel systems represents a significant step in the realisation of demanding infrastructure projects. With a total of three key projects - the Semmering tunnel chain, the Oberaich, Niklasdorf and Massenberg tunnels and Stadtstraße Aspern in the area of Vienna - we are demonstrating our leading expertise in the field of switchgear technology. These projects, which are realised in close cooperation with our client PKE Verkehrstechnik, modernise Austria's transport infrastructure and improve both safety and efficiency.

As part of these tunnelling projects, BT-Systems will supply some 1,000 state-of-the-art switchgear systems over the next five years, with an order value in the millions. Approx. 1,700,000 individual parts will be installed. Approx. 900,000 metres of copper wire and copper rails weighing several tonnes will be processed at the highest standard and with the strictest quality controls. The switchgear is used in various areas of the tunnel infrastructure and includes specialised solutions for the following applications:

  • Free field distributor: These control cabinets play a central role in power distribution along the motorways and at the tunnel entrances to ensure reliable power supply.
  • Switch cabinets for the electrical rooms: These form the central control point for controlling and monitoring the entire tunnel infrastructure, thereby ensuring safe operation.
  • Switch cabinets for the tunnel sector: These control cabinets secure the power supply for safety-relevant equipment such as emergency call niches and lighting systems, which are essential for the protection of road users in tunnels.

In the realisation of these projects, BT-Systems provides the reliable switching technology required for the safe operation of the tunnel systems.

100% Made in Austria: Maximum quality paired with regional value creation
All switchgear is produced in BT-Systems' state-of-the-art production facilities in Austria. Strict quality controls guarantee that every system meets international standards. "By manufacturing in Austria, we not only ensure the highest precision and quality, but also make an important contribution to regional value creation and strengthening the domestic business location," says Gerald Kreiner, CEO of BT-Systems.

Technological innovations for precision, efficiency and progress
BT-Systems uses state-of-the-art technologies to optimise the production of its switchgear. Using EPLAN Pro Panel 3D design, we simulate switch cabinets in high detail before producing them, thus maximising the quality of our end products. In addition, a processing machine ensures maximum precision in the mechanical processing of the housings and mounting plates. Housings, doors and mounting plates for the switch cabinets are milled and machined fully automatically - with a level of precision that would be impossible to achieve manually. In addition, total documentation enables fast and identical reproduction of each system, which significantly increases flexibility in production.

A key feature of BT-Systems' highly automated production is the Wire Terminal - the most modern wire assembly system in Austria. This technology enables the fully automatic processing of wires - from cutting to length and stripping to crimping and labelling. This terminal is indispensable when processing almost 900 kilometres of wire - roughly the distance from Vienna to Cologne. With its precise automation, it not only guarantees consistently high quality, but also maximum efficiency in every step of the process. In addition, each switchgear unit is equipped with shock indicators on delivery, which enable continuous monitoring during transport. This safety measure guarantees that all systems arrive at their destination in perfect condition and can be reliably put into operation.

"Thanks to state-of-the-art technologies, we can fulfil our customers' individual requirements quickly and precisely. In doing so, we guarantee consistently high production quality and at the same time secure a clear technological advantage," explains Gerald Kreiner.

Certifications and quality standards: 
BT-Systems is one of the leading switchgear manufacturers in the entire DACH region and is known for its high quality standards. With an annual output of some 1,300 switchgear units, the company is one of the largest suppliers in this sector.

In addition to important certifications such as EN ISO 9001, EN ISO 14001, EN 1090-1+A1, SCC, CSA C22.2 and UL 508A, BT-Systems is also a recognised Siemens SIVACON Technology licence partner.

Outlook: The path into the future of tunnelling technology
By winning the contract for Austria's largest switchgear project, BT-Systems has once again established itself as an innovative and flexible partner for complex infrastructure projects. Many years of experience and the ability to respond dynamically to the requirements of large projects make us a recognised market leader in switchgear technology.
 

The tunnel projects in detail:
 
  • Semmering tunnel chain
    The Semmering tunnel chain is an infrastructure project along the S6 Semmering motorway and comprises several tunnel sections, including the Grasberg tunnel, the Eselstein tunnel, the Semmering tunnel, the Steinhaus tunnel, the Spital tunnel and the Ganzstein tunnel. As part of extensive modernisation measures being carried out by ASFINAG, the safety and efficiency of this important transport link is being brought up to the latest state of the art.
  • Tunnel project Oberaich, Niklasdorf and Massenberg 
    These tunnelling facilities are also located along the S6 Semmering motorway and include the renewal of the electrotechnical equipment as well as the installation of a traffic guidance system. The aim is to improve the safety and efficiency of the tunnels.
  • Stadtstraße tunnel project in Aspang in the area of Vienna
    Stadtstraße Aspern is an important infrastructure project in Vienna and connects the A23 south-east bypass with the planned S1 Seestadt Aspern section. The project comprises the construction of two tunnels in the area of Emichgasse and Hausfeldstraße.

„We are very proud to be able to drive forward the modernisation of Austria's tunnel infrastructure with this large project and to strengthen the safety and efficiency of future transport systems with our technologies. At the same time, this order confirms the competitiveness of Austrian value creation.“

Gerald Kreiner
CEO of BT-Systems

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