We are world leaders in friction management and high quality track products for the global rail markets.
Our performance critical engineering solutions fulfil an essential role in maintaining the safe, secure and reliable daily operation of rail networks.
L.B. Foster Rail Technologies operates from its design, manufacturing and production facilities in Sheffield.
Friction management
We systematically assess, implement and monitor friction control. We combine this with our technology to monitor, maintain and manage friction to achieve short and long-term performance benefits for rail operators and network owners. We have developed a wide range of proprietary systems to control friction between the wheel and rail for transit and freight rail applications.
Our inspirational friction management products and delivery systems provide substantial cost benefits by maximising equipment performance and minimising wear at the wheel/rail interface.
Global Friction Management Laboratory
L.B. Foster Rail Technologies is leading the way with breakthrough research and development in the field of friction management. Our investment in a ground-breaking new Global Friction Management Laboratory in Vancouver, Canada is much more than a centre of excellence for commercial product development; it’s expanding new technical capabilities that are firmly positioning us as a world leader in the fundamental understanding and management of friction at the wheel/rail interface. The laboratory is equipped with specialised equipment to drive forward advancements.
We collaborate with leading universities, industry groups and partners to generate this new knowledge. Most recently university partners include:
- University of British Columbia (Canada)
- University of Sheffield (UK)
- Southwest Jiaotong University (China).
Track products
We are a world leader in the manufacture and supply of high quality track components for the global rail sector. Our products are proven in service around the world.
Our in-house R&D, customer support and technical teams possess a wealth of industry expertise, ensuring our products and services remain at the forefront of innovation. And our extensive experience of high-speed commuter, urban commuter, tram, metro and freight railway markets equips us with unrivalled expertise in these core areas of operation.