Automatic
Switch Machines
Reliable switch machines built for the demands of modern rail yards.
Whether you're replacing aging equipment, reducing manual switch throws, or planning a larger automation project, we'll help you determine the right solution for your operation.
Products
Automatic switch machines that fit your rail yard environment.
YM-16
Our flagship electro-hydraulic yard switch machine trusted by Class I railroads, ports + industrial facilities.
Positive position verification
Closed-loop hydraulic design
Easy field maintenance
Designed for demanding yard environments
HSM-17
A high-speed electro-hydraulic switch machine designed for classification yards + other demanding switching environments.
Rapid switch operation
Direct-drive hydraulic system
Simplified maintenance
Proven performance in demanding environments
ENGINEERING OVERVIEW
YM-16
The YM-16 is Advanced Rail Systems' flagship electro-hydraulic switch machine, engineered to deliver reliable performance across a wide range of rail yard applications. Designed for both retrofit projects and new installations, it combines a closed-loop hydraulic system, direct-drive mechanics and positive position verification to provide dependable switch operation in demanding environments.
Its low-profile housing, automatic cylinder centering and redundant dual-spring holding system are engineered to reduce maintenance while delivering consistent performance over years of service. Available in battery, solar and AC-powered configurations, the YM-16 supports multiple control methods and integrates seamlessly into both standalone installations and fully automated rail yard systems.
Trusted by Class I railroads, ports, industrial facilities and short lines, the YM-16 has become the switch machine of choice for organizations seeking long-term reliability, straightforward maintenance and flexible integration with modern rail yard automation technologies.
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The YM-16 utilizes a closed-loop electro-hydraulic drive system to deliver smooth, repeatable switch movement with fewer mechanical wear points than traditional linkage-driven designs. Hydraulic power is transferred directly to the switch points through a direct-drive mechanism, eliminating unnecessary complexity while improving long-term reliability.
Automatic cylinder centering ensures consistent operation throughout the throw cycle, while a redundant dual-spring holding system maintains positive pressure against the stock rail after each movement. The result is a switch machine engineered for dependable performance in continuous rail yard service.
Design Features
Closed-loop electro-hydraulic system
Direct-drive mechanics
Automatic cylinder centering
Redundant dual-spring holding system
Low-profile housing
Field-serviceable components
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Knowing that a switch has moved is only part of the equation. The YM-16 is engineered to verify that the switch points have fully reached and remain in the commanded position.
Mechanical target indication and inductive proximity sensors provide positive position feedback to local operators and remote control systems. This allows the YM-16 to integrate confidently into automated operations where accurate switch indication is critical to safe and efficient yard movement.
Includes
Mechanical target position indication
Inductive proximity sensors
PNP normally open outputs
9–30VDC indication signals
Compatible with local and remote indication systems
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The YM-16 is engineered for rapid operation while maintaining the holding force necessary for dependable switch alignment.
Operating Characteristics
Throw time: 1.2 seconds
Throw force: 4,500 lbf (19.8 kN)
Spring holding force: 2,000 lbf (8.9 kN)
Hydraulic operating pressure: 1,100 psi (7.6 MPa)
Operating temperature: -40°F to +185°F (-40°C to +85°C)
Traillable up to 30 mph
Broken rod detection available
Designed for continuous service in demanding yard and mainline environments.
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The YM-16 is designed to integrate with a variety of operating methods, from standalone installations to fully networked rail yard automation systems.
Supported control methods include:
Remote control circuits
Yard automation systems
Network communications
DTMF via VHF/UHF radio
Local push-button operation
Manual hydraulic hand pump
Its flexible control architecture allows the YM-16 to fit existing infrastructure while supporting future automation initiatives.
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Available in multiple power configurations, the YM-16 can be deployed wherever reliable switch operation is required.
Power Options
12VDC battery-powered
Solar panel with battery charger
110VAC battery charger
220VAC battery charger
230VAC battery charger
Electrical Specifications
AGM Battery: 12VDC – 105 Ah
Control voltage: 12–24VDC
Inductive proximity switch point detection
Continuous charging through AC or solar charging systems
This flexibility makes the YM-16 well suited for both remote locations and permanently powered installations.
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The YM-16's low-profile design simplifies installation while providing excellent access for inspection and maintenance.
Physical Specifications
Length: 43.5 in (110.5 cm)
Width: 29.5 in (100.3 cm)
Height: 8.7 in (22.2 cm)
Weight: 595 lb (270 kg)
Throw Length: 3–6 in (76–152 mm)
Additional engineering resources include front, side, top and footprint dimensions for planning new installations and replacement projects.
ENGINEERING OVERVIEW
HSM-17
The HSM-17 is a second-generation electro-hydraulic switch machine engineered specifically for high-speed hump and classification yard operations. Its closed-loop hydraulic system, direct-drive mechanics and redundant dual-spring holding system provide fast, dependable switch operation while reducing routine maintenance.
Available in both 12VDC and 120VAC configurations, the HSM-17 supports multiple control methods and integrates easily into modern rail yard automation systems.
Every major design decision — from the low-profile housing to automatic cylinder centering — was made to improve reliability, simplify maintenance and deliver consistent performance in demanding operating environments.
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The HSM-17 utilizes a closed-loop electro-hydraulic operating system with direct-drive mechanics to deliver smooth, repeatable switch movement while minimizing the number of mechanical wear components. The hydraulic cylinder incorporates automatic centering, while a redundant dual-spring holding system maintains positive point pressure throughout operation.
Highlights
Closed-loop hydraulic system
Direct-drive mechanical linkage
Automatic cylinder centering
Redundant dual-spring holding force
Low-profile housing
12VDC (battery) or 120VAC configurations
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Throw time: 1.2 seconds
Throw force: 4,500 lbf (19.8 kN)
Spring holding force: 2,000 lbf (8.9 kN)
Hydraulic operating pressure: 1,100 psi (7.6 MPa)
Operating temperature: -40°F to +185°F (-40°C to +85°C)
Traillable up to 30 mph
Broken rod detection available
Designed for high-speed hump and classification yard applications
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The HSM-17 supports multiple methods of operation, allowing it to integrate into both existing infrastructure and new automation projects.
Supported control methods include:
Remote control circuits
Data/network communications
DTMF via VHF/UHF radio
Local push-button operation
Manual hydraulic hand pump
Switch point detection is provided through inductive proximity sensors with PNP NO 12VDC outputs and indication signals.
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Available in 12VDC (battery-powered) or 120VAC versions
Heavy-duty AGM battery (12VDC – 105 Ah)
Control voltage: 12–24 VDC
Compatible with:
Solar panel with battery charger
AC battery charger (110V / 220V)
Designed for continuous battery charging through AC or solar charging systems.
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Length: 43.5 in (110.5 cm)
Width: 29.5 in (100.3 cm)
Height: 8.7 in (22.2 cm)
Weight: 595 lb (270 kg)
Throw length: 3–6 in (76–152 mm)
Low-profile housing
Engineered for straightforward installation and maintenance access.
Complete the System
The switch machine is only one part of a reliable rail yard automation solution.