The increasing scarcity of hardwood, deforestation, and the ban on creosote, together with spiralling track maintenance costs, were the main drivers for Lankhorst to develop the KLP^® Hybrid Polymer Sleeper as a synthetic wood alternative. Providing ease of installation, machinability and a product weight comparable to wood, this plastic timber solution seamlessly integrates into existing railway infrastructure. Moreover, thanks to its adaptable design, the KLP^® sleeper provides the ideal solution when dimensional restrictions come into play.

The maintenance-free KLP^® Hybrid Polymer Sleeper is manufactured from high quality, ductile polymer with encased steel bars. This provides high strength properties, low thermal expansion and excellent damping characteristics. The steel reinforcement is strategically placed for maximum effectiveness without interfering with fastening systems. This delivers the longitudinal and lateral stiffness needed to maintain track gauge under all conditions while making it suitable for strength and impact critical situations. The recycled polymer simultaneously serves as an efficient impact absorber and sound damper, reducing noise levels and enhancing rail infrastructure longevity.

For the first time in nearly two centuries, track owners have the flexibility to precisely adjust their choice of railway sleepers and address operational and environmental challenges. The KLP^® Hybrid Polymer Sleeper range is defined by its optimized designs, specifically developed for a diverse range of applications, including tracks, turnouts, bridges and tunnels. The KLP^® Hybrid Polymer Sleepers have been subjected to the design approval tests as described in the ISO 12856-2:2020 standard for polymeric composite sleepers, bearers and transoms.