RSCM
The RSCM from Vogel & Plötscher is an approved testing instrument for detecting defects on the rail surface. It identifies and analyses typical rolling contact fatigue (RCF) defects, such as head checks and squats, as well as material loss and pitting, to a depth of up to 7 mm. The data is displayed in real time and indicates how many millimetres of material must be removed to restore the rail. Approved by Deutsche Bahn and designed for operation by one person.
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RSCM: detection of cracks on the rail surface
Surface cracks are one of the main factors affecting railway track maintenance. The RSCM rail crack measurement system from Vogel & Plötscher is an approved testing instrument designed to detect these defects. It identifies and analyses typical rolling contact fatigue (RCF) damage, such as head checks and squats, as well as material loss and pitting, to a depth of up to 7 mm.
Magnetic flux measurement with 19 sensors
The system generates a magnetic flux within the rail and scans the rail head using 19 high-sensitivity sensors arranged at 5 mm intervals. Variations in magnetic flux leakage reveal the depth and shape of existing defects. The data is displayed to the operator in real time, indicating the maximum detected depth. This makes it possible to immediately determine how many millimetres of material must be removed from the rail profile by grinding or milling in order to eliminate the defect.
Easy operation by one person
The RSCM can be assembled and operated by one person. The equipment can be placed on and removed from the rail within a few seconds, while measurements are carried out at walking speed, between 2 and 5 km/h, enabling long sections of track to be inspected in a short time. With IP65 protection, a battery life of at least 4 hours and memory capacity for 20 km of track, it is designed for full days of field inspection.
Approved and compliant with applicable standards
The RSCM is approved by Deutsche Bahn (DB), and its measuring system complies with the DB 821.2007V03-36 directive and the EN 61000-6-4:2017 standard. This makes it a valuable reference for infrastructure managers and railway maintenance companies requiring objective data to plan rail treatment and predictive maintenance.
RSCM technical specifications
- Measurement resolution: 0.1 mm
- Sampling interval: 2 mm
- Detectable defect depth: 0.1–7.0 mm
- Number of sensors: 19, arranged at 5 mm intervals
- Memory capacity: 20 km of track
- Battery life: at least 4 hours
- Protection rating: IP65
- Measurement speed: walking speed (approx. 2–5 km/h)
- Dimensions (length x width x height): approx. 700 x 165 x 820 mm
- Weight: approx. 20.0 kg
- Real-time data display
- Assembly and operation by one person
Equipment options
- Additional track roller unit
Standards and approvals
- Approved by Deutsche Bahn (DB)
- Compliant with the DB 821.2007V03-36 directive
- Compliant with EN 61000-6-4:2017
Additional information
| Defects detected | Head checks, squats, RCF, loss of equipment, stings |
|---|---|
| Measurement resolution | 0,1 mm |
| Sampling interval | 2 mm |
| Defect depth | 0,1 – 7,0 mm |
| Sensors | 19 (5 mm intervals) |
| Memory | 20 km of track |
| Autonomy | At least 4 hours |
| Protection | IP 65 |
