Railway

Engineered actuation for rail vehicles and infrastructure.
Engineering support from concept to qualification

Reliable Motion Systems for Modern Rail Platforms

Rail vehicles demand robust, durable and precise motion technology capable of operating under constant vibration, heavy load cycles and challenging environmental conditions.

Rotalink’s miniature motors, gearboxes and feedback systems support a wide range of onboard and trackside functions — delivering smooth, controlled movement in space-constrained, safety-critical rail environments.

  • Durable, vibration-resistant actuation
  • Compact motion for tight rail envelopes
  • Smooth, low-noise performance
  • High-torque gearbox solutions
  • Designed for harsh rail environments
Rotalink | Railway 0

Industry Challenges

  • High Vibration & Continuous Duty
    Rail systems operate for long hours with constant shocks and vibration, requiring motion solutions with exceptional durability.
  • Temperature & Environmental Exposure
    Actuators must maintain performance across rain, dust, heat, cold and rapid thermal changes.
  • Safety-Critical Reliability
    Door systems, switches and pantographs must operate flawlessly, with precise, repeatable control.
  • Space Constraints
    Modern rolling stock demands compact, integrated actuation that fits within tight mechanical envelopes.
  • Low Noise Requirements
    Passenger comfort requires smooth, quiet operation across interior mechanisms.
  • Long Life & Minimal Maintenance
    Rail operators demand high MTBF, minimal downtime and components built for decades of service.

How Motion Technology Supports Railway Systems

Rotalink | Railway 1

Traction & Drive Support Mechanisms

While primary traction motors are large units, miniature gear motors support essential peripheral systems:

  • Auxiliary cooling flap actuation
  • Sensor alignment and feedback mechanisms
  • Gearbox and bogie monitoring systems
  • Positioning mechanisms in propulsion and braking systems

Our compact geared motors provide stable, controlled motion that integrates seamlessly with vehicle control architectures.

    Rotalink | Railway 2

    Door Actuation & Access Systems

    Passenger access requires reliable motion every cycle, in all weather conditions.
    Rotalink supports:

    • Controlled opening/closing of passenger doors
    • Platform gap filler actuation
    • Secure locking and release systems
    • Soft-start, soft-stop motion for passenger safety

    Low-noise geared motors ensure smooth, vibration-free performance for both interior and exterior door systems.

      Rotalink | Railway 3

      Pantograph & Current Collection Systems

      Pantographs rely on precise, high-torque miniature actuation for:

      • Raising and lowering mechanisms
      • Contact pressure adjustment
      • Auxiliary motion control for safety and monitoring

      Our gearboxes provide the required torque and positional stability under dynamic loads and high vibration.

        Rotalink | Railway 4

        Cabin Airflow Management

        Railway HVAC systems depend on fine, quiet motion control.
        Applications include:

        • Blend-door and airflow valve actuation
        • Zone regulation for passenger comfort
        • Vent grille and recirculation control
        • Thermal management for driver cabins and equipment rooms

        Miniature geared motors deliver repeatable, low-noise positioning essential for climate stability.

          Rotalink | Railway 5

          Trackside & Depot Equipment

          Motor/gearbox assemblies support a range of maintenance and signalling functions:

          • Motorised point/switch mechanisms
          • Signal equipment actuation
          • Inspection and diagnostic rigs
          • Gate, barrier and platform equipment

          Our solutions offer long service life and consistent performance in harsh outdoor conditions.

            Why Choose Rotalink for Railway Applications?

            • Durable, vibration-resistant actuation
              Proven for long-life rail environments
            • Compact, efficient designs
              Ideal for cramped interior and under-frame spaces
            • Smooth, low-noise operation
              Enhancing passenger comfort
            • High-torque geared solutions
              For doors, pantographs and airflow systems
            • Reliable performance in extreme conditions
              Including temperature and weather variation