HEMSCHEIDT Rail offers a comprehensive portfolio of articulation systems for trams and light rail vehicles, specifically developed to meet the demands of urban rail transport.
Our articulation systems connect vehicle segments safely, flexibly, and durably — even under challenging conditions such as tight curves, frequent acceleration and braking, and varying passenger loads.
Through precise guidance and controlled absorption of forces, carbody structures are protected.
Our in-house development and manufacture of rubber-metal components combined with our long experience in the field lets us deliver customized solutions that can be seamlessly integrated into existing vehicle concepts.
Overview of articulation types
We offer articulation systems for the full range of urban rail applications that meet the highest standards of comfort, safety and durability in the operation of trams and light rail vehicles.
Yaw articulations
Robust connection elements for maximum freedom of movement
HEMSCHEIDT yaw articulations (HEYA) are designed to enable controlled yaw movements between vehicle segments.
They transmit torsional and lateral forces in a defined manner, thereby relieving stress on the car body and preventing material fatigue.
High-quality rubber elements provide effective damping and durability — even under tight curve conditions and frequent braking operations.
Pitch articulations –
Articulations for controlled pitch movements
HEMSCHEIDT pitch articulations (HEPA) are designed to allow rotation around the transverse axis, for example when passing over crests or dips, or with uneven load conditions.
They enable vertical relative movement between carbodies without overloading the vehicle structure, thereby improving both ride comfort and service life.
Finite element analysis (FEA) and multi-body simulations ensure that every articulation is precisely adapted to the respective load case and vehicle architecture.
Roll-yaw articulations –
Combining freedom of movement with rubber-metal bearing technology
Our roll-yaw articulations (HERYA) allow for controlled roll and yaw movements between vehicles segments.
With optimized bearing geometry and flexible metal-rubber elements, forces are safely transmitted, vibrations are reduced, and the vehicle structure can be effectively protected.
This system combines the advantages of elastic and rigid bearings, offering both high stability and flexibility.
Roll-pitch-yaw articulations –
Multi-axial articulation system with maximum dynamics
HEMSCHEIDT’s roll-pitch-yaw articulations (HERPYA) are connecting elements for rail vehicles.
They allow for yaw, pitch and roll movements across multiple degrees of freedom and are ideal for articulated trains or trams operating under particularly dynamic conditions.
With damper, spring or combined systems, forces are reliably absorbed and transmitted so that passenger comfort is enhanced.
Our Articulations at a glance
- Articulation systems for trams and light rail trains with high durability and ease of maintenance
- Customized solutions for complex motion requirements
- Reduction of forces and stresses for extended service life of the vehicle structure
- Innovative bearing technologies featuring rubber-metal elements and elastomer-metal bearing technology
- Development supported by finite element analysis (FEA) and multi-body simulations (MBS) for maximum precision and safety
- Plug-and-play integration in modern vehicle architectures
With the articulation systems from HEMSCHEIDT Rail, operators and manufacturers are provided with maximum flexibility, safety and comfort in urban rail transport.
Our systems are individually designed, highly durable and built to meet the most demanding operating conditions faced by trams and light rail vehicles.
Would you like to learn more about our solutions? We are happy to provide you with personal advice.