Vossloh HSG-2 High-Speed Grinding Train
The Vossloh HSG, specifically the HSG-2 mainline train, is a hauled high-speed rail grinder for preventive maintenance on standard-gauge routes. It grinds at 60–80 km/h, treats up to 60 km non-stop depending on wheel configuration, and is designed to work within the normal train schedule.
Source reviewed: Vossloh HSG-2 Technical Datasheet, July 2025; cross-checked against the current Vossloh High Speed Grinding page
What is the Vossloh HSG-2?
HSG means High Speed Grinding. HSG-2 is Vossloh’s mainline HSG train and is also described by Vossloh as smart HSG-2 in current product information; some references use HSG II. It uses passive grinding technology: rail contact drives the grinding wheels while the train is hauled through the worksite.
The process is intended for frequent, low-removal preventive treatment. Vossloh explains that early treatment removes the approximately 0.1 mm hardened surface layer associated with rolling contact fatigue, helping limit head checks and squats before deeper corrective machining becomes necessary.
The July 2025 datasheet identifies a 44.28 m two-vehicle consist comprising a 24.64 m machining vehicle and a 19.64 m support vehicle. It is not self-propelled and requires suitable traction.
Short answer for machine selection: choose HSG-2 when the priority is long-distance preventive grinding on mainline or high-speed routes at timetable-compatible speed. Choose HSG-city when compact urban geometry is the controlling requirement.
Evidence boundary: this page covers the HSG-2 mainline configuration in Vossloh’s July 2025 technical datasheet. HSG-city is a separate, compact urban vehicle; its dimensions and operating range must not be transferred to HSG-2.
What work is HSG-2 designed to perform?
Regular light material removal to slow the development of rail surface defects.
The datasheet includes corrective work with limitations; project suitability depends on defect depth and removal target.
Vossloh lists mill-scale removal on newly laid rail, also with limitations.
Published applications include noise reduction and removal of slippery residues.
Vossloh reports noise reduction of 3–10 dB and rail-life extension of up to 100%. These are manufacturer claims and should be interpreted as project-dependent outcomes, not universal guarantees.
Vossloh HSG-2 gallery
Vossloh HSG-2 specifications
Traction, productivity and fire-risk control
Vossloh states up to 60 km of non-stop grinding depending on the grinding-wheel configuration. A DB reference application lists 35 km maximum rail length, three passes and a coarse/coarse/medium-fine wheel sequence.
The datasheet specifies 1,500 kW up to 12.5‰, 2,200 kW up to 20‰, and 5,300 kW up to 40‰.
Vossloh states that the system is suitable for tunnels with no subsequent clean-up required.
An optional line-side watering system carries 96 m³ and pumps 800 litres/min per side to reduce lineside fire risk.
Vossloh HSG-2 vs HSG-city
Both use the HSG passive-grinding principle, but they are not interchangeable machine configurations. Confirm the exact model, beam design and approved consumable documentation.
120 × 73 × 40 mm HSG grinding wheel
The same 120 × 73 × 40 mm resin-bonded wheel family referenced on the HSG-city page is relevant to selected Vossloh HSG systems. Final compatibility still depends on the installed HSG-2 grinding-beam configuration and approved documentation.
- Dimensions
- 120 × 73 × 40 mm
- Abrasive
- Zirconia alumina
- Bond
- Resin bond
- Application
- Selected Vossloh HSG systems
Compatibility check required: confirm the wheel marking, dimensions, bore, mounting interface, beam configuration, approved speed and machine documentation before ordering or installation.
What should buyers provide?
Vossloh HSG-2 FAQ
What is the Vossloh HSG-2?
It is a hauled high-speed grinding train for preventive maintenance of standard-gauge mainlines.
How fast does HSG-2 grind?
Vossloh publishes an operating speed of 60–80 km/h and a maximum hauled transport speed of 120 km/h.
Is HSG-2 self-propelled?
No. The datasheet identifies the system as non-self-propelled and provides traction-power requirements for different gradients.
How far can it grind without stopping?
Vossloh states up to 60 km, depending on the grinding-wheel configuration.
Can HSG-2 perform corrective grinding?
The datasheet lists corrective machining with limitations. Suitability depends on defect severity and required removal.
Is HSG-2 the same as HSG-city?
No. HSG-2 is a 44.28 m mainline consist; HSG-city is a separate compact system for urban networks.
Which grinding wheel is referenced?
A 120 × 73 × 40 mm wheel family is referenced for selected Vossloh HSG systems. Verify the actual beam, wheel marking and approval documents.
What information is needed for a quotation?
Send the exact HSG model, fleet number, wheel dimensions and marking, mounting details, required quantity, destination and delivery date.
Sources and review notes
- Vossloh Rail Services, High-Speed Grinding Train HSG-2 – Technical Datasheet, July 2025.
- Vossloh High Speed Grinding technology – current manufacturer explanation of HSG and smart HSG-2.
- Vossloh HSG-city model page — comparison and existing wheel reference.
- 120 × 73 × 40 mm rail grinding wheel — product dimensions and material reference.
Editorial review: 17 September 2026. Manufacturer claims are attributed; HSG-2 and HSG-city data are kept separate; consumable fit is subject to machine-specific confirmation.