photo: Rail Cargo Group / Public domain/DAC
On September 24, InnoTrans hosted the DAC Tour, giving attendees a firsthand look at the future of rail freight with the Digital Automatic Coupler (DAC). The event was organized by Europe's Rail and showcased three different types of automatic couplers, including a fully digital version.
Participants visited booths from major companies like Voith, Knorr-Bremse, Dellner, and ÖBB to learn more about this new technology. The tour drew a large crowd, offering a closer look at how DAC could change the rail freight industry.
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The DAC project is being praised as a major leap forward in collaboration across Europe. "This is a huge game changer for the rail industry," one presenter explained. Launched two years ago, the project brings together innovations from different EU countries, pushing rail technology forward and creating a standard across the industry. One of the most important aspects of the project is the interchangeable coupler heads and parts from different suppliers, which moves rail freight closer to full standardization with the new e-coupler.
Voith showcased a hybrid coupler that works with both mechanical and automatic wagons. This simple design improves safety for workers and features a special gear that reduces the force needed for coupling. Installing the hybrid coupler takes about 1.5 hours, but the complexity of testing on locomotives can take longer. "This will become the standard for all freight wagons," a Voith representative said.
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Knorr-Bremse showcased their DAC5 technology, which they hope will pioneer future freight operations by 2026. A representative from Knorr-Bremse explained that DAC5 will introduce automated brake tests and uncoupling, with the option for manual overrides. A key feature is the pin used to lock or unlock the coupling, which is being tested for its strength in various positions to prevent accidental coupling. “We need to use this shift in technology to bring digitalization and electricity into freight transport,” the representative added.
Knorr-Bremse, Dellner, and ÖBB mentioned how DAC will boost productivity and safety. According to a representative from ÖBB, the new system is critical for making rail freight easier and more reliable, thus making it more competitive with the trucking industry. The DAC technology will allow for capacity gains, productivity improvements, and better service quality, which aligns with the EU's goals for rail freight. ÖBB mentioned six conditions necessary for successful implementation: a single European DAC system, proven technology through field tests, operational functionality, adequate funding, a simplified authorization process, and a sound migration plan.
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By 2026, the first DAC trains will be on the tracks, testing automated systems like braking and coupling. The pre-deployment phase is already underway, with ongoing work on migration plans and management strategies to ensure the successful rollout of this game-changing technology across Europe.