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ADVERTORIAL
Scott Harrison, Chief Operating Officer of Permaquip and Aquarius, highlights some of the new, innovative products that the combined company is bringing to market
Transforming rail maintenance: Innovation in action with Permaquip and Aquarius
Battery-powered Stressing Pump. Images: Permaquip/Aquarius
New Ironman MK3
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n the dynamic world of UK rail maintenance, standing still is not an option. At Permaquip, we’ve dedicated over 50 years to delivering safety, reliability, and innovation in railway maintenance tooling. The 2021 acquisition of Aquarius Railroad Technologies Ltd merged the two well-known companies under one vision to drive forward the future of rail maintenance. The best way to predict the future is to create it, and Permaquip and Aquarius together are redefining what is possible in the sector.
Innovation beyond the tracks Permaquip and Aquarius bring together more than 78 years of combined expertise, creating a powerhouse of rail solutions that serve the UK and far beyond. Known for their trusted and certified products, both companies design their equipment to meet international standards, accommodating various track gauges, rail profiles, and rail weights. This adaptability means that our products can seamlessly support maintenance teams worldwide, ensuring an efficient, safe and consistent service, regardless of local rail specifications. Our strategy is simple: continual innovation. We are not only building tools, we are refining and futureproofing every element of our product lines to support the unique demands of rail networks around the globe.
Scott Harrison
Leading through innovation At the heart of Permaquip and Aquarius is the commitment to enhance safety, performance, and operational efficiency. Permaquip has recently introduced ergonomic and operational upgrades across various products. Our flagship HMS70 stressing equipment, for instance, now comes with ergonomic enhancements that reduce manual handling challenges and improve usability. Offering the option to update existing units, or as a feature of new products, the HMS70’s superior design includes a stressing stroke in excess of 380mm, making it the most reliable solution in the UK and adaptable to international standards, ranging from 90lb to 175lb
November 2024
rail weights for overseas clients. Innovation is not limited to tooling alone. Recognising the global push towards sustainability, we’ve collaborated with Hydraulic Technologies to offer eco-conscious options. In 2021, we upgraded the PG182 power pack to a Honda petrol engine, compliant with EU regulations, and compatible with Aspen Alkylate fuels. Our evolution continued with the PG182 Series hydraulic pump fitted with Honda’s EGX battery motor. Approved globally by Honda for rail stressing operations, this electric variant supports our global distribution, marking a milestone in reducing emissions without sacrificing power. Our development journey also includes UK battery-operated power solutions, thanks to our ongoing partnership with Hydraulic Technologies. Our lightweight PB43 battery power pack is now a sub-38kg practical reality, setting new standards for environmental responsibility in railway equipment, whilst implementing Network Rail’s ergonomic requirements for manual handling.
Enhancing ergonomics and efficiency Our journey of innovation continues with the Permaquip Link Trolley MK2, a Network Rail Product Approved model designed to make railway maintenance more ergonomic and efficient. Featuring a range of accessories, the Link Trolley MK2 simplifies tasks, improves safety, and is RIS1530 PLT approved,