Accessible local transport in Darmstadt

fisco ramp systems and fischer fixing technology in use

Accessible local transport in Darmstadt

HEAG mobilo GmbH is modernising the tram network in Darmstadt. The aim is to provide comfortable, low-step boarding and alighting for all passengers. Instead of costly complete conversions, the transport company is opting for partial platform height increases.

63 modular ramp systems made of glass-fibre-reinforced plastic (GRP) from fisco are being used. They reduce the boarding height by five centimetres. Secure anchoring in the substrate is provided by fischer UltraCut FBS II concrete screws made of stainless steel.

High accessibility requirements

Darmstadt is a major centre for science and business. Around 76,500 people commute to the city every day. Accessible local public transport is indispensable. Low-step entry helps wheelchair users and people with walking aids. Families with prams and travellers with heavy luggage also benefit from this.

Most HEAG mobilo stops are already considered to have low barriers. Nevertheless, a step of around five centimetres remained at many stations. Many platforms date back to the 1990s. Substrates, materials and gradients vary greatly. Completely rebuilding the stops would have been very expensive and would have blocked rail traffic for months.

Project Profile

Operator / Client
HEAG mobilo GmbH
fischer products used
fisco GRP ramp systems, fischer concrete screws UltraCut FBS II (stainless steel)
Project
Retrofitting for accessibility in the tram network
Location
Darmstadt and the Darmstadt-Dieburg district, Germany

Partial platform elevation with GRP ramps

Structural adaptation is carried out specifically in the boarding area of low-floor trains. fischer subsidiary fisco developed precisely fitting ramp systems made of glass fibre-reinforced plastic for this purpose. 

Precisely fitting dimensions: Depending on the stop, installation depths of 57 cm or 84 cm are available. The standard length is 4.60 m. A 5.80 m-long variant is available for combined bus and train stops.

Low weight: One element weighs less than 11 kg. Installation can be carried out by hand without heavy lifting equipment. This saves valuable time.

High safety: The surface meets slip resistance class R13. A flat leading edge prevents tripping hazards. Wheelchairs and prams roll over it effortlessly.

Robust material: GRP is extremely resilient, weather-resistant, UV-resistant and non-conductive. The yellow signal colour ensures good visibility.

Compensation for unevenness: The system reliably compensates for slopes and unevenness in the substrate. The ramps remain permanently stable.

Adaptability and practical relevance
Every station has its own specific conditions. It is precisely against this backdrop that our modular ramp system and the fastening solution used prove to be particularly practical.
Markus Blust, Team Leader Product Management at fisco GmbH
fischer products used

Secure hold with the fischer UltraCut FBS II concrete screw

fischer UltraCut FBS II concrete screws made of stainless steel ensure a firm hold. They offer clear advantages outdoors.

Rust-free stainless steel: The material permanently withstands moisture, frost and road salt.

Secure hold: The thread cuts into the concrete with a positive fit. This avoids expansion pressure and allows small edge distances.

Quick installation: The screw is driven in directly without a plug. This saves time at each fixing point.

 

Long-term testing and results

The installation was preceded by an extensive testing phase. From 2022 onwards, HEAG mobilo tested fisco ramps across its route network. Passenger surveys gave top marks for comfort, safety and visibility. The components also proved to be wear-resistant and low-maintenance throughout all seasons.

With the project in Darmstadt, fisco is setting another milestone in infrastructure expansion. Previously, 67 platform height increases were completed in Jena, along with 81 kerb height increases in Kassel.

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