EMC Rail Services: Austria & Beyond – EMC Testing for Rail Safety

EMC Rail Services Launches, Promising Enhanced Electromagnetic Compatibility Testing for the Railway Sector

In a move poised to enhance safety and operational reliability, Ingenieurbüro Rörden GmbH and PJ Messtechnik GmbH have joined forces to establish EMC Rail Services GmbH. Launched in 2025 and headquartered in Graz, Austria, this new entity specializes in Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) testing for the railway industry. EMC Rail Services was created to provide more thorough testing services for the evolving technical needs of the rail industry, focusing on testing of radiated emissions, radio protection, personal protection, and compatibility with crucial trackside and onboard systems. The partnership brings together the expertise of a German and Austrian specialist, providing a more powerful and customer-focused testing service, catering to the Austrian market and neighboring countries.

Addressing the Growing Importance of EMC

The railway sector is undergoing significant technological advancements, with systems becoming increasingly complex and reliant on electronic components. This trend underscores the critical importance of Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC). EMC testing ensures that electrical and electronic systems function without interference, both within the rail vehicle (e.g., locomotives, wagons) and with the surrounding infrastructure (e.g., level crossings, signaling, and radio communication systems). EMC testing is crucial in preventing unintended electromagnetic interference that could trigger false signals, leading to system failures, such as compromised braking systems.

The Synergistic Strengths of the Founding Partners

EMC Rail Services leverages the combined strengths of its founding partners. Ingenieurbüro Rörden GmbH, based in Dortmund, Germany, brings to the table extensive expertise in EMC testing, measurement technology, and approval support. The company is an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited test center and possesses a network of technical experts. PJ Messtechnik GmbH, based in Graz, Austria, is an accredited test center confirmed by ISO/IEC 17025 standard for brake tests, vehicle dynamics, fatigue strength, aerodynamics, acoustics and pantographs. PJM has extensive experience in engineering and testing a wide variety of rail vehicles worldwide. The collaboration allows both testing laboratories to combine their service portfolios and pool resources, to offer more comprehensive testing services under one roof.

Expanding Service Offerings and Market Reach

The collaboration is focused on the Austrian market and extending into neighboring countries to the south and east, including the Czech Republic, Italy, and Croatia. The services offered by EMC Rail Services include testing and analysis related to radiated emissions, radio protection, human exposure, and the compatibility of rail vehicles with track circuits and axle counters. This integrated approach allows for increased efficiency in project implementation and a stronger customer focus. According to Udo Kappel, Managing Director of EMC Rail Services, “We are increasing efficiency in project implementation, pooling resources and strengthening our focus on the customer. With the new location in Graz, we are not only increasing our presence on the Austrian market, but also moving closer to our customers in neighbouring countries.”

Conclusion

The formation of EMC Rail Services marks a significant development in the rail industry’s commitment to safety and operational efficiency. By integrating the expertise of Ingenieurbüro Rörden and PJ Messtechnik, the new entity offers a comprehensive suite of EMC testing services tailored to the increasingly complex needs of modern railway systems. The focus on EMC testing is particularly timely, as modern rail systems are becoming more technologically advanced, making this a critical concern. The establishment of EMC Rail Services underscores the proactive approach the industry is taking to meet the challenges posed by advanced technologies, including those related to safety, interoperability, and protection from electromagnetic interference. With the combined resources of both companies, EMC Rail Services is well-positioned to establish itself as a key player in the EMC testing market, particularly in Austria and neighboring countries, providing rail operators with the confidence of reliable and safe operations.

Company Summary

Ingenieurbüro Rörden GmbH Founded in 2008 in Dortmund, Germany. The company provides expert and testing services for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) in the railroad sector. They are an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited test center, offering testing services, expert support, and guidance through the approval process.

PJ Messtechnik GmbH Founded in 2006 in Graz, Austria, PJ Messtechnik GmbH is a well-established ISO/IEC 17025 accredited test center. Specializing in engineering and testing, PJM is a global provider of rail vehicle approval testing. PJM specializes in running characteristics, strength, brakes, acoustics, aerodynamics and pantograph testing.