The pneumatic track system is an advanced technology used in urban transport systems such as the subway, which uses wheels with rubber tires instead of steel wheels on conventional rails. This rail model provides multiple benefits, including better traction, less noise, and greater energy efficiency, making it a sustainable alternative for public transport.
Pneumatic Conveyor System
Published 09.05.25
3 mins read
Importance and Environmental Impact.
The use of pneumatic track systems has proven to be an effective solution for reducing environmental pollution and improving urban mobility. By operating with electric motors and minimizing energy consumption, it contributes to the reduction of CO₂ emissions and other polluting gases. In addition, its structure allows for quieter and more efficient driving, benefiting the quality of life in densely populated urban environments.
Global Implementation.
Cities such as Montreal in Canada, Santiago in Chile, Lyon, Marseille, Lausanne, and Paris have successfully adopted this technology. The first fully pneumatic metro system was implemented in Montreal in 1963, serving as a reference for other cities, including Mexico City, which currently has the most extensive pneumatic metro system in the world, with 10 pneumatic lines and 2 rail lines.
Key Components of the Pneumatic Conveying System.
The pneumatic track system is made up of different elements that ensure its safe and efficient operation:
- Pneumatic wheels: Rubber tires designed to provide traction on concrete or steel rolling surfaces.
- Guide wheels: Horizontal wheels that maintain the alignment of the train by contacting guide bars.
- Guide bars (third rail): An element that, in addition to guiding the train, supplies electrical power for its operation.
- Side safety rails: Provide additional support in case of low pressure or tire failure.
- Running track: Steel or concrete surface that allows for smooth and safe movement.
- Suspension system: Designed to absorb shocks and improve train stability.
- Advanced braking systems: Combination of electromagnetic, pneumatic, and friction brakes to ensure safe stops.
- Efficient electric motors: Provide the power needed for movement, reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
Environmental and Operational Advantages.
The pneumatic track system offers significant benefits in terms of sustainability and operational efficiency:
- Reduction in pollutant emissions: By using electrical energy, it eliminates the need for fossil fuels, reducing CO₂ emissions and other harmful gases.
- Greater energy efficiency: Its optimized traction capacity on slopes and during acceleration minimizes energy consumption.
- Lower noise impact: Compared to traditional rail trains, this system is considerably quieter.
- Promotion of sustainable transport: It encourages the use of public transport, reducing vehicle traffic and pollution.
International Experience in Railway Solutions.
Egis, as a global leader in consulting and engineering, has participated in multiple railway projects around the world, integrating advanced technologies to improve the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of transportation. With a highly specialized team and an innovation-based approach, Egis applies methodologies such as BIM and digital platforms to optimize processes and ensure the success of each project.
One of the most notable projects is the Grand Paris Express in Île-de-France, France, the largest urban project in Europe with 200 km of transport lines. Egis has provided construction management services for systems and infrastructure on lines 15, 16, 17, and 18, in addition to managing scheduling, overall coordination, and construction supervision. In 2017, Egis, Société du Grand Paris, and their partners received a BIM d'Or award in the “Infrastructure Projects” category for their collaborative work with BIM for line 16 of this network.
Innovation in Ecodesign.
Egis has developed a comprehensive eco-design approach to minimize the environmental impact of infrastructure projects. This approach, structured within the Act4Ecodesign framework, is based on key environmental criteria, including reducing energy consumption, optimizing the use of materials, and protecting biodiversity.
In the Lyon South Metro in France, Egis implemented a low-carbon pozzolanic concrete track bed, achieving a 60% reduction in the use of conventional reinforcements and a saving of 380 tons of CO₂ equivalent.
Towards a Sustainable Urban Future.
The cities of the future require mobility solutions that reduce environmental impact and optimize operational efficiency. Through eco-design and technological innovation, it is possible to transform urban infrastructure to make it more sustainable and resilient.
At Egis, we work on developing projects that integrate advanced methodologies such as BIM and Act4Ecodesign, ensuring safer, more efficient mobility with a smaller carbon footprint.
Autor.
Alan MartínezEgis Technical Coordinator
