Matisa 1952

When the track tamping machine was introduced in 1946, it replaced sixteen track workers. Additionally, it performed the job much faster and with greater precision.

When the track is newly laid, it is necessary to fill and pack sand, gravel, or macadam under the sleepers to ensure stability. After some time, the ballast is compacted by the passage of trains. Then, the track must be lifted with a jack (often called a "frog" or "tita") and tamped again. This work was performed in the 1940s by work teams with shovels.

However, the working environment for the machine operator may not have been the best. The sign "Risk of hearing damage. Use hearing protection" was surely justified.

Designation: Matisa, machine no. 1408
Engine: Diesel engine, Scania Vabis, 85 horsepower
Service weight: 8000 kilogrammes

This machine was used until the 1970s before being set aside as a museum piece. It now belongs to the Railway Museum in Gävle.