“Railway depots need service systems that are easy to understand, reliable, and systematically monitored. At the same time, given the shortage of skilled workers, there is a growing need for digital solutions that simplify maintenance and training,” says Jewgeni Schreider, International Sales Manager for the Infrastructure segment at Vogelsang. “With Anaconda and the virtual twins, we are responding to market demands and demonstrating how high-performance systems and digital services can be integrated in the future.”
Anaconda: fully automatic, flexible hose retraction system
The Anaconda is a newly developed hose retraction system for wastewater disposal and fresh water supply on passenger trains. There is no need to manually wind or unwind the hose; it is stored loosely inside the housing. This makes the system much easier to use. At InnoTrans, transparent casing will give visitors a glimpse of the automatic hose retraction system.
“The Anaconda can accommodate hoses up to 20 meters long and combines a large operating radius with a compact design. This is particularly relevant for rail depots where there is limited installation space. At the same time, the system can be flexibly adapted to different structural and operational requirements,” explains Schreider.
The Anaconda is available as a standalone hose unit or as a combined DSR system for suction and flushing. It can be installed horizontally or vertically, as well as above or below ground. The system complements Vogelsang's portfolio of hose units and thus offers an alternative to the proven ReelUnit and TUnit solutions.
TUnit with foundation bracket and improved extraction couplings
While the Anaconda houses the hoses compactly within an enclosure, the TUnit keeps the supply and discharge hoses readily available via a vertical mast structure. This principle has already proven effective in numerous rail depots, particularly in Central Europe. At InnoTrans, Vogelsang is showcasing the latest version of the TUnit MP, which the company has further developed in several areas. As part of this process, the piping and valve systems were thoroughly overhauled. These adjustments enhance process reliability and comply with current international standards and regulatory requirements. In addition, Vogelsang has further optimized the operating concept as well as ease of service and maintenance.
In addition, the company is showcasing its upgraded extraction couplings. A 3D hologram animation illustrates how the couplings are attached to the train and activated.
Virtual twins for the VacUnit and TUnit: digital support for service and training
The virtual twins digitally represent the VacUnit or the TUnit as a configurable 3D model. Users can view the solutions from different perspectives, open them, and explore the features of each component. Access is available via VR glasses, a QR code, or a web browser. This allows the 3D models to be used for training, maintenance, and after-sales services, regardless of location. Virtual twins make it easier to understand the design and operation of systems, especially those that are customized for specific customers. Service personnel can familiarize themselves with the respective VacUnit or TUnit before a job and prepare the necessary steps.
Systems for effective wastewater management
Also on display at the stand are other service units, such as the BioUnit MID for the disposal and cleaning of bioreactor toilets. This unit extracts the wastewater, flushes and cleans the solids tank, and uses the built-in rotary lobe pump to transfer the wastewater to a sewer or tank without the need for an additional vacuum system. This makes it particularly suitable for locations without a central waste disposal infrastructure.
Vogelsang at InnoTrans, September 22-25, 2026, Berlin: hall 6.2, stand 315