Rail supplier news from Leica Geosystems, Harsco, United Rail, HNTB and WAGO (July 5)

Leica Geosystems has acquired InfraMeasure, a company specializing in rail measurements. Financial details of the transaction weren't disclosed. InfraMeasure designed and developed the patent-pending SafeLoad® system, which is a portable, laser-based measurement and documentation solution. The system, which has been implemented by four Class Is, can help reduce high-wide measurement time and labor by at least 50 percent, according to a Leica Geosystems press release.

Harsco Rail has received an order for seven Stoneblower track geometry machines from Network Rail, the owner and manager of mainline rail infrastructure in Great Britain. The Stoneblower units automate the process for restoring track geometry by using pneumatic stone insertion below the cross ties. The latest generation units are equipped with a computerized measurement and design system and automatic stone metering system, Harsco officials said in a press release. The Network Rail order calls for deliveries over two years beginning in late 2019. The new units will succeed a fleet of retiring Stoneblower units that have logged more than two decades of service for Network Rail, which operates 20,000 miles of track in England, Scotland and Wales. Under a long-term agreement, Harsco Rail will ensure availability of spare parts and software support.

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has tapped BBR Verkehrstechnik GmbH to develop a proof of concept for the RFP-24-16 Green Line train protection system. The company will work with United Rail Inc. to begin development of a proof-of-concept test schedule and test procedures.

HNTB Corp. has hired John Daza as senior project manager-rail and associate vice president. He has more than two decades of structural engineering experience in the design and construction of complex transportation projects, HNTB officials said in a press release. Daza's background includes managing projects, programs and construction for rail and transit systems, bridges, tunnels, roadways and related facilities. Before joining HNTB, Daza was a department manager and senior associate at another major consulting firm.

WAGO has named Brad Sedoris regional sales manager for Kentucky. His familiarity with the state and customers' needs in the area will be an asset for WAGO, company officials said in a press release.