Freight pantograph

Reliable current collection for rail networks with increased contact wire heights
Conventional pantographs reach their limits where overhead contact lines are significantly higher than standard, for example on freight corridors operating double‑stack container trains. The Schunk High‑Reach Pantograph is engineered for an extended working range and maintains stable contact with the overhead contact line across its full operating envelope. It enables reliable current collection at operational speeds while helping to minimize wear on both the pantograph and the overhead line.

Key Benefits

• Specifically designed for railway networks with high overhead contact lines
• Stable contact with the overhead wire throughout the extended working range
• Reliable current collection at speeds up to 200 km/h (124 mph)*
• Optimized contact behaviour to reduce wear on contact strips and overhead lines
• Adaptable to different vehicle platforms and infrastructure concepts
• Fully compatible with Schunk carbon contact strips and system components
• Worldwide service and genuine spare parts from a single source

Notes
*Depending on vehicle and infrastructure configuration.

Design and testing
Development is based on advanced simulation, prototype validation and testing under real operating conditions. The pantograph design targets a wide operating envelope and consistent contact performance under dynamic conditions typical of high‑clearance corridors.

Characteristics / Technical specifications

• Application: rail networks with increased contact wire heights (e.g., freight corridors with double‑stack container trains)
• Extended working range for exceptionally high overhead lines
• Maintains stable contact across the full operating envelope
• Reliable current collection at speeds up to 200 km/h (124 mph) depending on vehicle and infrastructure configuration
• Optimized contact behaviour to minimise wear on contact strips and overhead lines
• Adaptability to different vehicle platforms and infrastructure concepts
• Compatibility: fully compatible with Schunk carbon contact strips and system components
• Development: based on advanced simulation, prototype validation and testing under real operating conditions
• Service & parts: worldwide service and availability of genuine spare parts from a single source