Hot skirts assist de-icing
UK: ScotRail has been using polytunnels and fitting trains with skirts to assist de-icing during unusually severe conditions this winter. This improved rolling stock availability by up to 30% in the second half of December compared to the first two weeks, according to the operator.
Polytunnels, which are normally used to protect fruit and vegetables from the cold, have been wrapped around trains, supported by air blowers, so that ice melts more quickly.
Heated skirts enclosing only the train's underframe and bogies work in a similar way. The heated skirts can be fitted in 30 min, and de-icing can be completed within 4h.
Multi-purpose works tram delivered
FINLAND: Helsinki transport operator HKL has taken delivery of a custom-designed €2·5m Windhoff maintenance vehicle for its tram network, the first of a pair it intends to buy to replace two cars dating from the 1950s.
Eurostar accepts multiple failings
EUROPE: The findings of the independent review commissioned to look into the collapse of Eurostar cross-Channel services during the severe snowstorms on December 18-19 were announced in London on February 12.
New CEO aims to get Pesa back on track
POLAND: Rolling stock manufacturer Pesa is to announce a new strategy in the first quarter of this year, following the supervisory board's decision to appoint the management board's Vice-President of Operations Krzysztof Zdziarski as Chief Executive on January 8. Robert Tafiłowski was appointed as Chief Financial Officer. ...
Railway supply industry news round-up
RJ Corman Railroad Group has announced the closure of its RJ Corman Railpower Locomotives business in Erie, Pennsylvania, with effect from February 29. RJ Corman had acquired the assets of the Railpower genset locomotive business in 2009, but on January 8 this year it ...
Indian rolling stock and construction equipment manufacturer BEML and construction firm Ircon International have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore opportunities to co-operate in export markets. Ircon said it had a 'strong International presence and proven capabilities' in tracklaying, electrification and infrastructure construction, including ...
Wabtec expands capabilities with purchase of RELCO Locomotives
USA: Wabtec Corp has announced the expansion of its remanufacturing and repair capabilities with the acquisition of RELCO Locomotives for $29m. RELCO Locomotives is an established company in the leasing, rebuilding, and repair sector, with operations in Albia and Cedar Rapids, Iowa. It has projected sales ...