July 24 (Reuters) - Heavy industrial parts maker Wabtec

raised its full-year profit forecast on Wednesday,

driven by robust demand in its freight segment.

The Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania-based company is a provider of

equipment, systems and aftermarket services for freight and

transit rail industries.

Wabtec now expects 2024 adjusted profit per share in the

range of $7.20 to $7.50, compared with its previous forecast of

$7.00 to $7.40.

"We just finished our annual strategic planning and at this

point, we stand confident in our ability to drive profitable

growth, consistent with our long-term guidance," CEO Rafael

Santana said.

Sales in the company's freight segment, its largest, rose

more than 13% to $1.92 billion in the second quarter. The unit

manufactures new locomotives and provides aftermarket services

to various markets, including railroads, mining and industrial

sectors.

Wabtec posted adjusted profit of $1.96 per share for the

quarter ended June 30, compared with analysts' average estimate

of $1.88 per share, according to LSEG data.

Total net sales rose 9.8% to $2.64 billion, in line with

Wall Street expectations.