Improving asset management

The Netherlands has one of the densest railway networks in the world and effective asset management is critical. Many of the present 10.000 yearly disturbances and disruptions can be attributed to ineffective asset management and maintenance. Dynamic loads, the drivers for asset degradation, become stronger with higher speed, heavier trains and intensified use of the railway network.

The effect of dynamic loads, so far, has not been properly accounted for and needs research on multiple scales. Moreover, intensified use of the network puts pressure on possibilities for inspection, repair and maintenance. A paradigm shift in maintenance approach is therefore needed, based on automated assessment of assets and smarter use of data:

• Multi-scale understanding of degradation
• Novel monitoring and sensing techniques
• Predictive modelling
• Smart service logistics (also relevant for the theme ‘increasing capacity’) 
• Modularity to minimize maintenance impact (also relevant for the theme ‘increasing capacity’) 
• Digital simulations
• Climate change adaptation (also relevant for the theme ‘increasing capacity’) 
• Embankment (also relevant for the theme ‘increasing capacity’​​​​​​​)