The American Eagle in Colorado, Coppa Mountain. Foto: Peter Landsmann

Cities, SI Urban 1/2020

7 STRANDS FOR MORE ADVANTAGES

Teufelberger-Redaelli backs the 7-strand Solitec ®Max 7

Thomas Surrer

2. March 2020

Over the years, more than 130 7-strand cables have been installed and operated. The cable has been perfected through further development with support profiles from the established Solitec® technology. The very positive experience in practical use is underpinned by a mathematically modelled vibration analysis from RICAM and MathConsult. The study confirms a vibration intensity that is reduced by up to 38%. Photo: Peter Landmann

The strength of Solitec® Max7 is manifested especially in the case of tracks that are subject to extreme strain, where the cable is in use for many hours per day, on many days in the year and with many bending cycles. For the system operator, it is about the longest possible durability here, which is optimally supported by the greater number of strands in the Solitec® Max7.

In combination with permanently installed regreasing systems, exceptional performance data can be produced here, without exposure to the risk of contamination. Being durable and largely maintenance-free are essential criteria, which should be maximised. The Solitec® Max7 is therefore ideal primarily for urban and tourist applications as well as short Alpine tracks with many changes of direction.

A few references for the Teufelberger Redaelli 7-strand cables

Casa Cantoniera, Abetone (gondola lift Italy)
MM50 People Mover, Pisa (People Mover Italy)
KC 41 Crest – Alpe Ostafa III, Champoluc (gondola lift Italy)
GD10 Oberalppass, Andermatt (gondola lift switzerland)
American Eagle, Copper Mountain (Telemix USA)
American Flyer, Copper Mountain (chairlift USA)

Greater precision and less wear when splicing the 7-strand Solitec ® Max7

In comparison with 6-strand solutions, the Solitec® Max7 is not only the same to handle but even displays a number of advantages. Splicing cables with a diameter >60mm is extremely difficult work, which can be achieved only manually, even today.

It must be performed with great precision, as the splice seam marks a point in the cable that is very susceptible to faults if it is not executed correctly. The relatively thinner strands make splicing easier and thus aid precision.

“In addition, the Solitec® Max7 displays 30% less surface pressure on the winding material, which reduces wear. As this effect increases disproportionately with thicker cables, the positive effect on durability of the splice is the logical result,” Markus Würcher, CEO of TEUFELBERGER-REDAELLI, is confident. Diagrams: TEUFELBERGER Holding AG

Comfort and smooth running pay off and Solitec® Max7 makes them possible

Alongside cleanliness and design, comfort and smooth running are two of the most essential properties noticed directly by users of a railway, whether urban or Alpine. Both are noticeably improved by the 38% reduction in vibration intensity from Solitec® Max7. Seven strands describe a “rounder” circle than six. The spaces between the strands are smaller and less deep, and they are held in a regular shape by the use of synthetic plastic profiles. The plastic profiles also prevent friction corrosion from strand contact.