Railway Technology Center turns 25

This year, the Railway Technology Center at Luleå University of Technology celebrates 25 years with several successful projects in the luggage. Here, researchers develop high-tech maintenance methods and solutions for new and existing railways. The aim is to ensure safe, flawless and sustainable train operations at the lowest possible cost.

In connection with the anniversary celebration, Luleå University of Technology signs a strategic collaboration agreement with Alstom, the world's second largest train manufacturer, where the goal is for new groundbreaking research results to be disseminated and utilized through commercialization.

In the year when the government focuses on the maintenance of the existing railway system, JVTC turns 25 years. JVTC conducts innovative research and development with a focus on streamlining the operation and maintenance of the entire railway system.

The role of the rail system in the green transition

Thanks to JVTC's unique geographical location with its proximity to both the main line through upper Norrland and the Malmbanan, research that is currently in demand worldwide is made possible. JVTC's access to an operating railway serves as a test and demonstration environment with delivery of data directly from reality. The approximately 50 researchers at Luleå University of Technology are one of Europe's largest research groups in their field and have an important and leading role in railway maintenance research.

- Now that northern Sweden becomes an engine for the green transition, the research at JVTC can contribute to a well-functioning and reliable railway, which is a prerequisite for the global climate transition, says Uday Kumar, Professor of Operations and Maintenance Technology at Luleå University of Technology and Director of JVTC.

JVTC develops tools, methods and technologies to mitigate the negative effects of climate change on railway systems and infrastructure through optimal maintenance.

Collaboration in research, innovation and education

During the JVTC anniversary on June 13, a strategic collaboration agreement was signed between Luleå University of Technology and Alstom. The parties will cooperate in research-innovation-education. The cooperation concerns education, research and technical support, which aims to share experiences and expertise.

- "We are very pleased with our strategic cooperation agreement with Alstom and look forward to benefiting from their expertise in railway technology. The collaboration agreement is further proof that JVTC is both a national and international partner in railway research. The aim is to find new innovative solutions and methods for the maintenance and development of the railway and thus sustainable transportation. This development is a prerequisite for the green transition, says Birgitta Bergvall-Kåreborn Vice-Chancellor at Luleå University of Technology.

Alstom is a world leader in smart and sustainable transportation. Alstom is the largest player in the Swedish railway market with over 1000 delivered trains, Alstom performs maintenance in 16 depots around Sweden and delivers the new ERTMS system to the Swedish Transport Administration. Through the acquisition of Bombardier Transportation 2021, the company's Swedish operations have multiplied.

-"We are very excited about this collaboration and hope that it will lead to increased knowledge exchange, research collaborations and innovations in railway technology. By combining our industrial experience and expertise with Luleå University of Technology's academic resources, we look forward to innovative solutions and technologies for green mobility and the railway system. Collaborations on internships and training programs for students, can also train and attract new talents to the railway industry, says Maria Signal Martebo, CEO of Alstom Transport Sverige AB.

Linda Nilsson