After an extensive evaluation lasting several years involving laboratory testing, track performance trials in curves and high speed lines, and installation performance trials, RFF/SNCF have confirmed their decision to use the Pandrol FASTCLIP system on all concrete sleeper renewals and new line construction projects in France.

This will include the construction of TGV Est during 2004-2006.The evaluation process to compare captive fastening systems against the existing French threaded system, included a rail fastening tender for pre-assembled fastenings, a concrete sleeper tender to compare sleeper and pre-assembly costs of the FASTCLIP and the German threaded system and a tracklaying tender, in which contractors quoted installation costs for the two systems. FASTCLIP won the three way evaluation process.

The contract will run for 5 years from 2003 and represents a major step forward in the growth of FASTCLIP sales in Europe.