Modernization boosts urban mobility in Zurich
Fatzer from Romanshorn has supplied two new hauling ropes for the Rigiblick funicular in Zurich. Following its modernization, the funicular will resume operations in the autumn.
The Rigiblick funicular is currently being modernized and is due to resume operations in the autumn. In addition to the new vehicles, which have been jointly developed by Verkehrsbetriebe Zürich, Garaventa, Milani Design and CWA, new train ropes will also be in use. Fatzer AG, based in Romanshorn, manufactured and delivered the high-performance ropes. They have now also been installed, according to a statement from the BRUGG Group, to which Fatzer belongs.
The two 32-millimetre-thick hauling ropes are each 480 meters long and weigh 1.9 tons. “With around 160 journeys per day and a travel time of just two minutes without stopping, the strain on the ropes is high. The high level of stress requires the highest material quality in order to ensure reliable operation with maximum safety,” reads the press release on the train ropes of the “symbol of urban mobility and quality of life”, which is also part of Zurich’s cultural heritage.
The Performa rope from Fatzer has been specially developed for urban applications. The rope features plastic profiles between the strands, creating an “almost cylindrical surface structure”. This significantly reduces vibrations and noise. The company also points out the durability of the ropes.