PESCO Sleeper Changer Machine Redefines Track Maintenance with Adaptive Forearm Technology

Railway infrastructure demands precision and adaptability, and PESCO’s innovative Sleeper Changer Machine delivers both through its advanced forearm design. This hydraulic-powered solution integrates a custom-engineered shovel and multi-material wood clamp, streamlining sleeper replacement while ensuring optimal performance across diverse track environments.
The machine’s forearm assembly combines two critical components: a specialized shovel and a dual-function clamp. The shovel, designed with reinforced edges and optimized angles, efficiently excavates and backfills ballast materials beneath the rails, reducing manual labor and accelerating work cycles. Meanwhile, the adjustable wood clamp securely grips wooden, concrete, or composite sleepers with uniform pressure, enabling safe lifting and precise placement even in tight spaces or uneven terrain.
This adaptive design eliminates downtime caused by equipment reconfiguration. Operators can switch between sleeper types without additional tools, making the machine ideal for modern rail networks where mixed materials are common. By automating repetitive tasks, the Sleeper Changer Machine minimizes human error and enhances worker safety, all while maintaining compliance with international standards.
In action, the system begins by excavating ballast around the target sleeper using the shovel’s controlled motion. The clamp then secures the sleeper for vertical removal, allowing quick access to the track bed. After debris clearance, the shovel redistributes ballast to prepare the site for the new sleeper, which is lowered into place with millimeter-level accuracy. Finally, the shovel compacts the ballast to stabilize the track, ensuring long-term structural integrity.
Clients in Europe, Asia, and North America have reported transformative results. A major railway operator in Germany reduced project timelines by 35% while cutting labor costs by over €150,000 annually. Their team praised the machine’s ability to handle heritage wooden sleepers and modern concrete variants interchangeably, noting seamless integration into existing maintenance workflows.
PESCO’s commitment to innovation is reflected in the machine’s durability and ease of operation. Built with corrosion-resistant materials and intuitive controls, it withstands harsh weather conditions and prolonged use. Comprehensive training and remote support ensure operators maximize efficiency from day one.
For railway maintenance teams seeking to elevate productivity and safety, PESCO’s Sleeper Changer Machine offers a versatile, reliable solution. By combining smart engineering with adaptive technology, it sets a new standard for track renewal.