DB Cargo has implemented a cost-effective strategy to modernize its timber transport fleet by repurposing wagons from its steel division. Instead of buying new wagons, the company decided to retrofit 50 wagons that were about halfway through their technical service life. These wagons, originally flat wagons used in the steel industry, were converted to carry timber. The conversion involved significant modifications, including the addition of stanchions and auxiliary loading sleepers, enabling the wagons to carry both raw and processed timber of various sizes.
Erik Loebel, Equipment Manager for Timber at DB Cargo, described the project's genesis: “In need of reinforcing our timber fleet, we aimed to find a resource-friendly solution. As the steel fleet also required modifications to meet changing customer needs, we realized a mutual benefit could be achieved by repurposing existing wagons.”
The versatility of the modified wagons enhances their operational efficiency. They are now capable of transporting round timber to sawmills and sawn timber to processing companies and can return empty to collect more raw materials, facilitating efficient round trips.
Sylvia Debler, Project Manager in the Vehicle Projects division at DB Cargo, emphasized the project's broader impact: "The conversion of these wagons not only meets our investment criteria but also supports our environmental objectives. This initiative allows us to continue providing flexible and modern transport solutions to our Timber and Steel divisions.”
