ÖBB has launched an innovative tunnel drainage cleaning system, significantly automating maintenance processes and cutting the need for track closures. The new Hydrojet system, featuring the modular MDB02 solution, was presented together with contractor FCC Austria at the Koralmbahn site in St. Paul im Lavanttal.
The MDB02 allows remote-controlled and partially automated cleaning of tunnel drainage pipes, improving efficiency and infrastructure availability. "With growing traffic and more tunnels, cleaning needs are rising while maintenance windows shrink," said Judith Engel, Board Member of ÖBB-Infrastruktur AG. "The MDB02 cleans during ongoing operations, reducing closures to only a few short movements of the system," he explained.
Mineral deposits in tunnel drainage pipes have historically required frequent and labour-intensive cleanings, often involving several annual line closures. The MDB02 marks a turning point by enabling regular maintenance during live railway operations, without interruptions. “Our long experience and close cooperation with ÖBB allowed us to develop a truly practical automated solution,” added Florian Scheibe, Country Manager at FCC Austria.
The remote-controlled system is positioned over the central flushing shaft inside the tunnel, and a camera-equipped nozzle is inserted directly from the maintenance base. Thanks to this technology, cleaning distances increase dramatically — from around 150 metres previously to more than 2,000 metres in the Granitztal tunnel. After each cycle, the system is moved to the next location during a scheduled pause, while passenger and freight services can continue running.
With major infrastructure projects such as the Koralmtunnel, Granitztaltunnel and the future Semmering Base Tunnel entering service, maintenance needs will continue to grow — adding around 750 kilometres of drainage annually. The MDB02 will complement conventional methods and open new possibilities both on existing and future tunnel assets.
ÖBB says the system combines essential tunnel maintenance with maximum track availability, bringing clear benefits for passengers, rail operators and freight customers alike.
MDB02 HIGHLIGHTS
- Automated drainage cleaning system for rail tunnels
- Remote-controlled Hydrojet positioning and operation
- Cleaning during live traffic with minimal closures
- Up to 2,000 m cleaned per cycle (previously ~150 m)
- Supports Austria’s major tunnel projects, including Koralmbahn
