V Flow
PU sealant compound for embedded rail grouting and continuous rail undergrouting
V Flow is an elastic polyurethane V Flow PU sealant compound for rail-concrete grouting in slab track systems. The sealing solution is suitable for both embedded rail grouting and continuous rail underpouring as well as baseplate underpouring beneath ribbed plates.
Product Features
- Suitable for embedded rail grouting and continuous rail underpouring
- Void-free load transfer and permanent bearing stability
- Reduced structure-borne noise and vibration transmission
- Permanent electrical insulation against stray current corrosion
- Short closure times thanks to rapid load-bearing capability
Three applications, one material
Modern track infrastructure requires different construction methods. V Flow covers both central applications in urban track construction.
Application: Continuous rail undergrouting
In continuous rail undergrouting, the rail is elastically supported on the concrete track slab along its entire length. A full-surface support is created between rail and subgrade instead of individual point supports. The grouting compound compensates for construction tolerances and provides a defined spring effect. The aim is not rigid fixation, but controlled elastic support.
This produces the following effects
- Uniform distribution of wheel loads
- Permanent stabilisation of track geometry
- Reduction of vibrations and structure-borne noise
- Protection against stray current corrosion
- Less wear on rail and vehicle
The continuous support prevents localised stress peaks in the concrete and significantly extends maintenance intervals. Typical applications are tramway, urban rail and slab track.
Application: Baseplate undergrouting
In baseplate undergrouting, individual rail support points are elastically undergrouted on the concrete track slab. Load transfer takes place at discrete points via defined bearing positions. The grouting compound creates a force-fit connection between concrete and steel and establishes a permanent bearing surface. At the same time, manufacturing tolerances are compensated and the precise height position is set.
Function of the elastic underlaying
- Uniform load distribution into the subgrade
- Protection of the concrete track slab from localised overloading
- Prevention of corrosion through water ingress
- Reduction of vibrations and noise
- Permanent positional accuracy of the rail
The construction protects the substructure and enables low construction heights, particularly in tunnels and for slab track.
Application: Embedded rail grouting
In embedded rail grouting, the rail is fully elastically embedded in concrete or in a steel channel. The V Flow grouting compound forms a circumferential elastic support and prevents rigid clamping. The rail remains in a defined supported position rather than being clamped. This reduces forces and increases the service life of the infrastructure. Tested for axle loads up to Category C in accordance with EN 13481-5.
Technical operating principle
The self-levelling V Flow grouting compound fills voids completely and produces a reproducible bearing stiffness. Excellent flowability for void-free filling. The high electrical resistance protects against stray current damage.
Benefits for planning and operation
A defined elastic rail support prevents:
- Settlement
- Cracking in the concrete
- Loose fastenings
- Increased maintenance costs
- Noise complaints
The result is predictable life cycle costs and stable track geometry.
V FLOW Grouting Compound
Material properties at 23 °C
|
Property |
|
Standard |
Value |
|
Colour |
|
– |
black |
|
Density |
|
DIN 53 479 |
1.09 |
|
Hardness Shore A |
|
DIN 53 505 |
60 ±5 |
|
Elongation at break |
|
DIN 53 504 |
180 % |
|
Tensile strength |
|
DIN 53 504 |
8 MPa |
|
Compression modulus 10 % |
|
ASTM D695 |
7 MPa |
|
Tear resistance |
|
ISO 34-1 |
19 kN/m |
|
Compression set (72 h / 23 °C) |
|
ISO 815-1 |
7 % |
|
Resilience |
|
DIN 53 512 |
39 % |
|
Adhesion to concrete |
|
EN 1542 |
> 2.0 MPa |
|
Adhesion to steel |
|
EN 1542 |
> 2.0 MPa |
|
Surface resistivity |
|
EN 61340-2-3 |
1.8 × 10¹⁰ Ohm |
|
Volume resistivity |
|
– |
5.08 × 10⁹ Ohm·m |
|
Temperature resistance |
|
– |
-20 °C to +60 °C |
|
Load-bearing at 23 °C |
|
– |
after 24 hours |
Supplementary properties
- Good adhesion to concrete and metal
- UV and hydrolysis resistant
- Resistant to microorganisms
- Stray current insulating
- Vibration-reducing
- Excellent flowability for complete filling
- Suitable for manual and machine grouting
V Flow Crane Rail Rehabilitation
During the refurbishment of a crane runway with rail replacement, the main focus was on repairing loose rail fastenings and ensuring a safe renewal of the fastening system. The V Fastening PU rail fastening system for MRS87A from HET Elastomertechnik GmbH was used for this project.
The rail grout was mixed and applied on site using standard mixing equipment. The result is a permanently stable rail fastening system, reduced downtime, and an efficient refurbishment process for the crane runway, supported by the technical expertise of HET specialist personnel.
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