Arna – Floen, Norway: First slab track installation in Norway

The project involves the construction of an additional single-track rail line in the Ulriken Tunnel in Norway to improve public and freight transport links from Oslo to Bergen. Other existing single-track lines for this connection are heavily used and have been running out of capacity over time. An additional slab track through the mountain "Ulriken" will therefore significantly improve capacity for both freight and passenger traffic. The double track also allows more frequent train departures, increases flexibility in route planning and improves safety in the event of tunnel emergencies.

Over a distance of 6.9 km, the new slab track was built using our long-proven RHEDA 2000® system. Known under the BaneNOR contract number "UUT31", this is the first slab track and also the first RHEDA 2000® project to be realized in Norway. The line has now been successfully in operation since the end of 2020. A special feature of the railroad line is that it is partly designed as a lightweight mass-spring system to reduce ground-borne noise at a sensitive tunnel section located under a hospital.

First slab track installation in Norway
Work in progress for the installation
Completed track, open to traffic

Project details:

  • Delivery of RHEDA 2000® bi-block sleepers and transition sleepers from August 2019 to March 2020
  • The operating speed is 160 km/h
  • RAILONE and Pandrol designed the transition zone between the ballasted track and the ballastless RHEDA 2000® track. They performed Engineering services during the installation at the construction site
  • RAILONE delivery scope:
    • In total 10,640 pieces RHEDA 2000® bi-block sleepers
    • 9,700 pieces RHEDA 2000® bi-block sleepers with DFC fastening system
    • 940 pieces RHEDA 2000® bi-block sleepers with FCA fastenings for MSS section
  • Sleeper types for transition zone: GWS 05  and TRS 220