18-19 June 2025
Porterbrook’s Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre

Innovative ground anchoring foundation systems for level crossings and trackside

Anchor Systems (International) Ltd Stand: M270
Innovative ground anchoring foundation systems for level crossings and trackside

Anchor Systems (International) Ltd: Leading the Way in Rail Sector Anchoring Solutions

Established in 1995 and based in the UK, Anchor Systems (International) Ltd is a global leader in earth anchoring products and solutions. The company provides a comprehensive range of anchoring systems for various sectors, including rail, highways, civil engineering, construction, utilities, marine, horticulture, agriculture, geotextiles, and domestic applications.

With extensive expertise in rail infrastructure, Anchor Systems offers technical support services, including design specifications, site testing, full installation training, and access to approved specialist installers when required. The company has developed multiple innovative anchoring systems designed specifically for use on level crossings and trackside applications, now widely utilized across Network Rail and London Underground projects.

The Anchor Screw Foundation System: A Game-Changer in Rail Infrastructure

The Anchor Screw foundation system is a pioneering technology with a patented domed head and interface plates, which can be seamlessly incorporated into different designs. This system provides significant cost savings and eliminates the need for traditional installation methods such as concrete. The rapid deployment capability of the system allows it to be installed using portable handheld equipment, making it a preferred choice for the rail sector due to its efficiency, reduced costs, and sustainability. The Anchor Screw system also offers an average carbon footprint reduction of 70% compared to conventional anchoring methods.

Key Products for Rail Applications

Level Crossing Signage Solution

The level crossing signage solution has been designed using modified Anchor Screw foundations to allow for the rapid installation of signs and other assets. The system uses 1.68-meter Anchor Screw Piles with adapter plates that connect directly to the signposts.

  • The interface plate allows for a 7° lateral adjustment in any direction, ensuring a total tolerance of 14° for precise leveling.

  • Fully removable and reusable, the system allows repositioning as needed.

  • Network Rail specifies the use of two rounded posts to prevent wind load-induced rotation or movement, requiring two Anchor Screws for stability.

  • The system eliminates hand excavation, muck away, and concrete usage, significantly reducing installation time and costs.

  • Manufactured entirely in the UK from 100% recycled or scrap steel, aligning with sustainability goals.

Level Crossing Grillage with Anchor Screw Foundation

Designed for use in the Southern Level Crossing Renewal project, this solution reduces risks associated with urban and high-traffic areas.

  • The design incorporates Anchor Screw piles with interface plates attached directly to a steel grillage base, ensuring a quick and efficient installation with minimal disruption.

  • Developed for Network Rail projects to support lifting barrier machines and Road Traffic Lights (RTL) in areas with buried high-voltage (HV) routes and other obstructions.

  • Helps replace Automatic Half Barrier (AHB) crossings with safer Manually Controlled Barrier (MCB) CCTV Level Crossings.

  • Supports the installation of lighting columns, CCTV cameras, and barriers, all housed on the grillage with Anchor Screw foundations.

Box on Post (BOP) and Anchor Screw Foundation

This system follows the same principles as the level crossing signage solution but is designed for supporting single assets, such as Signal Post Telephones (SPT).

  • Allows for direct communication between train drivers and signallers.

  • Designed for penetration into poor ground conditions, eliminating the need for extensive ground investigations.

  • Includes a single pre-assembled Anchor Screw with a domed head and interface plate, simplifying the installation process.

  • Rubber grommets protect flexiducts during installation, ensuring secure signal connections.

Environmental and Operational Benefits

The Anchor Screw foundation system offers multiple advantages over traditional methods:

  • Sustainability: Made from 100% recycled UK steel, ensuring full recyclability and reusability.

  • Longevity: A 100-year design life guarantees durability.

  • Zero Wet Trades: Eliminates curing times and excavation, reducing environmental impact.

  • Portability: All materials can be transported by hand or via track trolleys.

  • Low Noise Installation: The torque head operates at zero decibels, while the power pack registers at only 88dB at two meters, making it ideal for night work and noise-sensitive areas.

  • Health & Safety: No hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) risk during installation.

  • Carbon Reduction: Provides over 70% carbon savings compared to conventional foundation methods.

Conclusion

Anchor Systems (International) Ltd is rapidly becoming the preferred supplier of anchoring solutions for the rail sector. Their innovative ground anchoring technology enhances efficiency, sustainability, and safety across rail infrastructure projects.

For further details on Anchor Screw foundation systems and other products, contact:

Tel: 01342 719 362
Email: info@anchorsystems.co.uk
Website: www.anchorsystems.co.uk

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