The 29th International Exhibition for Track Technology (iaf) will take place in Münster from 20 to 22 May 2025. As the largest trade fair of its kind, it offers a comprehensive overview of current developments and innovative technologies in track technology. Stephan Schulte, Chairman of the VDEI Superstructure Technical Committee, talks about the importance of the trade fair, the challenges in the industry and the future of track technology.

Mr Schulte, the 29th International Trade Fair for Track Technology (iaf) is just around the corner. What can exhibitors and visitors expect?

iaf 2025 will be an impressive event. We will be presenting a comprehensive overview of the industry on 15,000 m² of hall space, 6,000 m² of open space and more than 3,000 m of track. We expect over 15,000 visitors and more than 150 exhibitors from all over the world

What makes the iaf so special for the industry?
The iaf is an impressive showcase for the entire industry. Nowhere else are the latest machines, equipment, components and construction technologies presented in such a concentrated way. It is also an ideal opportunity for networking, exchanging ideas with colleagues and listening to high-calibre specialist lectures.

What challenges do you currently see in track technology?

One major challenge is to strike the right balance between infrastructure operation and the necessary construction work. Our rail network in Germany is under a great deal of pressure, and at the same time we have to generate track possessions for maintenance and construction. Added to this is the shortage of skilled workers. Working in track construction is often associated with less than attractive working hours, which makes recruiting young talent more difficult. Likewise, planning security is not continuously guaranteed, which is due, among other things, to known investment commitments.

How are you dealing with these challenges?

We are pursuing several strategies. For one thing, we are optimising the work environment by using more efficient machines and increasing digitalisation. We are also working closely with universities to attract young talent and impart basic knowledge. The development of more robust components and innovative solutions, such as plastic sleepers as an alternative to wooden sleepers, also plays an important role.

What role does digitalisation play in track technology?

Digitalisation is becoming increasingly important. Although the core work in track construction remains physical, AI supports automated, repetitive processes. For example, it could play a greater role in construction site planning in the future.

What about planning security in the industry?

That is an important point. In Germany, we sometimes only have one-year planning periods, while in Austria, for example, we have periods of several years. Longer-term financing planning, ideally over 10 years, would give the market the chance to develop better and plan in a structured way. This is where we need politicians who make binding decisions that extend beyond a legislative period.

What are the special features of the German rail network?

The German rail network is a mixed network used for both passenger and freight transport. Compared to other countries, we have many hubs and a very heavily used network. This means that individual disruptions can have a significant impact on the entire network.

What about innovations in the field of track technology?

We are constantly working on improvements. For example, we are developing more robust components and higher-performance rail steels. One specific example is plastic sleepers as an alternative to wooden sleepers. These are more durable and more resistant to biological decay. Wooden sleepers are made of natural material and are susceptible to fungi and bacteria.

There are also imponderables. Can you name one?

Yes, unfortunately the war in Ukraine is also affecting the rail construction industry. One of Europe's largest steel production plants in Mariupol has been destroyed in the conflict. We first need to find a replacement for that. So world events also have a direct influence.

What are your hopes for the future of the industry?

Above all, more planning security and reliable framework conditions. Long-term financial planning would enable companies to make necessary investments, for example in expensive special-purpose machines. This would ultimately increase the performance and efficiency of the entire railway market.

Finally, what is it that makes the iaf so fascinating for you personally?

The iaf impressively demonstrates how masses of steel and heavy-duty machines are moved. A concrete sleeper, for example, weighs 280 to 300 kilos, a rail about 60 kilos - that is literally ‘heavy metal’. The iaf makes the world of track construction accessible and understandable. It is an exhibition that fascinates people far beyond the professional world.

Mr Schulte, thank you very much for this conversation.

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