The first installation of a ballastless system on a metro system, performed without affecting normal circulation.

Groundbreaking work on Metro Line A

The Salcef Group has revolutionized the track on Rome’s Metro Line A. The project involved an important innovation: installing a ballastless system in the metro tunnel, carried out exclusively during short overnight track possessions, with service resuming normally every morning.

This solution, based on the FAST System developed by the Salcef Group, uses precast slabs to replace the old ballasted track, simplifying operations and reducing work times. The project carried out for ATAC, involved Baldo degli Ubaldi, Cornelia and Battistini stations, showing just how versatile and effective the system is in complex urban settings.

The FAST System ensures greater efficiency, safety, and sustainability for public transport, with concrete benefits for urban mobility and reduced impact on existing infrastructure.

A cutting-edge, integrated system

The FAST System is a unique integrated solution, from the production of Overail precast slabs to installation with advanced machinery made by SRT.

The main vehicles used were a new slab laying train and a concrete batching train, which allowed installation to be completely mechanized, for greater safety, precision and productivity. Both are designed to operate in tunnels with limited clearance, making it the ideal way to meet the technical and logistical challenges typical of metro systems.

Work during overnight track possession

Another distinguishing feature of the project was the ability to carry out the work during short overnight track possessions, ensuring that service resumed normally each morning.

This was achieved by the FAST System, which involves laying precast slabs with temporary supports, without having to concrete immediately in order to complete the work. During each possession, the existing track and ballast were removed and replaced with new slabs, allowing rolling stock to transit safely.

Thanks to this innovative solution, more than 300 trains ran safely the very next day, with no impact on public service.

Concrete benefits for urban mobility

Installing the FAST System has important benefits:

• Public service continuity: normal service resumes after every nighttime track possession.
• Productivity:a high-output mechanized system for track renewal during every nighttime possession.
• Performance: 25% less perceived and structural vibration.
• Efficiency: easier maintenance and less corrective action.
• Durability: an extended life cycle for reliable, long-lasting quality                                                            

The Salcef Group confirms its commitment to promoting innovation and modernizing rail infrastructure in Italy and worldwide.

With the FAST System, Rome’s Metro Line A becomes a model of technological excellence and sustainability, inspiring urban infrastructure renewal globally.