PJM Expands Accredited Rail Testing to Pantographs EMC Austria

GRAZ, AUSTRIA – Rail systems specialist PJM has expanded its accredited testing, engineering, and authorization services, adding pantograph and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing to its portfolio. The company also announced an expansion of its instrumented wheelset manufacturing capacity and digital freight solutions, including the WaggonTracker system, citing recent developments over the past three years. This expansion occurs as the global rail traffic management market is projected to reach US$ 106.8 billion by 2032 (Source: Persistence Market Research).

What Are the Technical Specifications?

PJM’s service expansion consolidates the entire vehicle development lifecycle, from design and FEM analysis to final regulatory authorization. The ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing laboratory now covers seven distinct areas: acoustics, brakes, running characteristics, fatigue strength, aerodynamics, pantographs (EN 50317/50318), and electromagnetic compatibility. For its digital freight offering, the WaggonTracker system provides a self-powered platform using energy harvesting for real-time monitoring of brakes, load weight, derailment diagnostics, and is designed to be compatible with future Digital Automatic Couplers (DAC).

Key Technical Data

Where Does This Technology Stand in the Market?

PJM’s WaggonTracker positions it directly against major industry players in the digital freight telematics market. Knorr-Bremse’s iCOM platform, for example, also provides condition-based monitoring and is a key component of its digital freight train solutions, including automated brake testing. Similarly, Wabtec’s portfolio includes extensive monitoring hardware and software platforms like TrainLink, which are widely adopted in North America and globally. PJM differentiates itself with its emphasis on a fully self-contained, energy-harvesting system and its integrated service model that combines hardware with accredited testing and authorization, offering a single point of contact for manufacturers. The power output of PJM’s energy harvesting system was not disclosed in the source material.

Editor’s Analysis

PJM’s strategy of vertical integration—combining hardware manufacturing, digital systems, accredited testing, and regulatory management—is a direct response to the increasing complexity and capital risk in rail vehicle development. By creating a one-stop-shop, the company aims to de-risk projects for manufacturers, a crucial value proposition as the industry faces pressure for both decarbonization and efficiency gains (Source: The Maritime Executive). This end-to-end model is less common among specialized telematics providers and could give PJM a competitive advantage with new entrants or manufacturers looking to streamline their supply chain.

FAQ

Q: What new testing capabilities did PJM add?
A: PJM expanded its ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratory to include pantograph testing (measurements and simulations per EN 50317/50318) and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing through its new subsidiary, EMC Rail Services.

Q: Is the WaggonTracker system compatible with the new European DAC standard?
A: Yes, the primary source states that PJM’s technology is designed to be compatible with a future Digital Automatic Coupler (DAC), as well as existing screw couplings.

Q: Who are some of the major clients using PJM’s services?
A: PJM’s client list includes manufacturers like Tatravagónka and Plasser & Theurer, wagon keepers such as VTG and TRANSWAGGON, and operators including Westbahn, SBB Cargo, and DB InfraGo.