NSK subsidiary chosen for Berlin U-Bahn project
March 2022
News
Brüel & Kjær Vibro (B&K; Vibro), part of the NSK Group, has signed a long-term agreement with Stadler Rail to install its state-of-the-art VCM-3 condition monitoring system (CMS) on 606 rail carriages for the Berlin Underground (U-Bahn). The VCM-3 CMS will serve to optimise maintenance schedules, maintain uptime and reduce operating costs.
This multi-million-Euro condition monitoring project is an integral part of a recent contract win by Switzerland-based Stadler that entails the delivery of up to 1500 new rail carriages for use on the Berlin underground rail network. The framework agreement has a value close to 3 billion Euros, making it one of the largest supply contracts ever awarded in Europe.

A total of 606 rail carriages for the Berlin U-Bahn will take advantage of B&K Vibro’s VCM-3 condition monitoring system.
B&K; Vibro’s comprehensive CMS solution includes vibration sensors and edge devices (on-board diagnostics), as well as diagnostic and analysis services that constantly monitor rail-carriage bearings and other rotating parts to deliver the utmost reliability.
Due to the high reliability demands of the public transportation sector, operators today focus extensively on reducing downtime and operating costs. Adopting a CMS solution enables the implementation of next-generation predictive maintenance strategies that not only help to optimise maintenance schedules, but boost operational reliability and uptime when combined with a lean operations team.
Ensuring the high availability of rotating machinery and components with intelligent monitoring solutions, B&K; Vibro has been a global pioneer in this field for decades. NSK acquired B&K; Vibro in March 2021 to further strengthen its ability to meet demand for advanced automation, smart technology and environmental measures. The move also serves to accelerate the company’s CMS business development on a global basis.
B&K; Vibro’s extensive range of products and services includes vibration sensors (acceleration, velocity, displacement), vibration monitors, software and online-integrated, plant-wide monitoring solutions. These technologies enable the safe and secure operation of transport systems, factories, petrochemical facilities, power plants and wind farms around the world, where they form part of innovative maintenance and production strategies.
Further reading:
Hitachi Energy ramps up global and African investments
News
Hitachi Energy ramps up global and African investments to support grid readiness for the AI era.
Read more...
Experience ICRA 2026 right here in Gqeberha, South Africa
News
The IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA) is the largest robotics, automation, artificial intelligence, and manufacturing conference in the world. You can experience the premier keynote and plenary presentations in Gqeberha.
Read more...
What to expect at Africa Automation Indaba 2026: From AI readiness to bankable automation projects
RX Africa
News
Africa Automation Indaba 2026 will give delegates a practical view of what it takes to move automation from ambition to implementation with a two-day programme focused on industrial readiness, skills development, policy alignment, investment realities and the future of intelligent operations.
Read more...
SKF achieves SaiMechE CPD accreditation
SKF South Africa
News
SKF South Africa has achieved SaiMechE CPD accreditation, a decisive step that empowers the next generation of engineers.
Read more...
Elevating artisanal skills is key to revitalising South Africa’s economy
ACTOM Electrical Machines
News
We need to challenge the stigma attached to artisanal and technical careers, and we also need a mindset shift supported by the schooling system so that young people understand future career pathways, choose subjects accordingly, and recognise that artisanal and technical skills carry equal value in a modern economy.
Read more...
One visit, five shows: practical solutions for safer, smarter operations
News
Five co-located shows will bring together the full picture of how organisations manage risk, compliance, infrastructure and energy.
Read more...
From the editor's desk: A little bit of magic
Technews Publishing (SA Instrumentation & Control)
News
Whatever your view is of America today, the Artemis II mission showed the world that it can still deliver moments of wonder. For a few days, the chaotic headlines gave way to something more. Who could
...
Read more...
Electra Mining Africa 2026
News
Electra Mining Africa will take place at Nasrec, Johannesburg from 7 to 11 September 2026.
Read more...
Woman of Stature Awards South Africa
News
In a powerful recognition of excellence in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Thabisile Phumo won the Woman in Mining and Engineering award at the 2026 Woman of Stature Awards South Africa.
Read more...
AVEVA to spotlight industrial intelligence at AVEVA Day
News
AVEVA will host AVEVA Day South Africa 2026 on 22 April with the theme ‘Accelerating Africa’s Industrial Future: Harnessing AI, Digital Twins and Data-Driven Operations for Sustainable Growth’.
Read more...