Before Replacement, Consider Refurbishment
The smarter lifecycle choice.
Not every used component needs to be replaced.
Sometimes the smarter choice is refurbishment.
What is Refurbishment?
Our refurbishment service restores used air spring systems to OEM-quality standards, extending their service life while reducing costs and resource consumption.
During the process, used air spring systems are dismantled and all components are carefully evaluated for reusability. Suitable components are cleaned, repainted if necessary, and thoroughly inspected.
A new air bellow is fitted to the top plate and bead ring before the system is reassembled with an auxiliary spring. Finally, the complete air spring system is tested by our trained experts using state-of-the-art testing equipment.
Once the system has successfully passed all inspections, the refurbished air spring system is shipped back to the customer.
Why Refurbish Air Springs?
Rail vehicle components such as the secondary suspension must be replaced periodically. However, replacing complete systems can be costly while many components of used air spring systems are still fully functional.
With Continental’s refurbishment service, reusable components are retained and combined with new air bellows and required replacement parts. This approach offers a solution that is:
- More cost-efficient
- Faster available
- Environmentally responsible
By preventing unnecessary waste and conserving valuable resources, refurbishment contributes to more sustainable railway operations.
Refurbished air spring systems achieve the same service life expectancy as new components, as the entire process meets OEM requirements.
Thanks to our extensive experience in assessing and refurbishing air spring systems, we can advise our customers individually on the best solution for their specific application.
Upon request, Continental or its trained partners can also inspect systems directly on site, handle the logistics, and provide standardized packaging solutions for safe transportation.
Industrial Reconditioning of Air Spring Systems
Regular maintenance of rail vehicle components is essential to meet the high safety standards of the railway industry. At the same time, operators must ensure cost-efficient fleet management.
Refurbishment offers the ideal balance between performance, safety, and cost-effectiveness.
As a globally recognized mobility expert, Continental restores used air spring components for trains, trams, and other rail vehicles, delivering OEM-quality performance.
- Reuse of intact components conserves resources, contributing to sustainability
- Spare part components of OEM quality
- Safety due to rigorous testing according to OEM requirements
- Warranty on newly-installed components and system impermeability
- High flexibility thanks to faster shipping
- Custom carefree packages on request
- Up to 50 percent faster in lead time
- 30 percent less costs on average
- Achieve cost savings of up to 50% without compromising on quality
- Lower CO₂ emissions by avoiding new raw material extraction and processing
