Ohmvo in Action: Heating Solutions for the Rail Industry
Rail operators worldwide are already reaping the benefits of Ohmvo’s high-performance silicone heaters.
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These real-world projects reveal how they help tackle harsh climates, reduce energy use and safeguard passenger and crew operations.
Barcelona-based Ohmvo produces lightweight, flexible and energy-efficient heating systems tailored to the rail industry. Its innovative and self-formulated thermally conductive silicone achieves a conductivity five times higher than comparable products, allowing lower operating temperatures while maintaining high performance and durability. For rail operators, this means safer, more reliable heating that integrates easily into new designs or retrofits for existing fleets.
Here we take a look at some examples of Ohmvo solutions in action.
De-icing Locomotives in Norway
A major rail operator in Norway was struggling with snow and ice accumulation on coupling systems in the Flytoget line, which was freezing mechanical latches and slowing operations. Ohmvo developed a custom cockpit heater embedded directly into the cockpit structure under the windshield. This quickly heated, weakening the accumulated snow and ice, so that it would slide off when opening the latch and restore quick access to systems.
Heating for Water and Sanitation Systems in India
In mountainous regions of India, trains are exposed to such low temperatures that the water tanks for grey and wastewater can freeze. This was not only a problem for train operation but also for maintenance for the Vande Bharat trains, because it could lead to difficult cleanups and damage to equipment.
Ohmvo’s solution was to apply thin, flexible heaters directly to the tanks, valves and piping, which prevented any further freeze-ups and ensured uninterrupted operations.
Energy-efficient Wall Heating in Spain
One Spanish operator was dealing with high HVAC energy use during winter in the High-Capacity trains, as the system had to work harder to maintain comfortable temperatures with doors frequently opening at outdoor stations.
Ohmvo developed an efficient solution, integrating electric silicone heaters into the interior walls of the passenger trains to complement the HVAC systems. The operator was then able to use HVAC for rapid initial heating, then switch to wall heaters during operation, maintaining a comfortable temperature with lower energy use.
Floor Heating for Driver Cabins
In cold conditions, drivers can struggle with numb feet, sometimes lifting them off safety switches without realising – a small lapse that can create major operational issues. To avoid this issue, many operators have trusted Ohmvo to integrate floor heating into their driver cabs. This ensured a steady, comfortable temperature underfoot, helping drivers stay alert and in control at all times.
Battery Heating for Electric Trains
As rail electrification expands, reliable battery performance is critical. One Spanish manufacturer introduced Ohmvo’s integrated heaters to enable its train batteries to charge and discharge at full capacity in freezing conditions. This supported regenerative braking and consistent performance whatever the outside climate.
Automated Doorsteps
Rail and tram operators in Spain faced recurring problems with ice and moisture accumulation in automated doorsteps, creating safety risks and delays. Ohmvo designed compact heaters that could be integrated directly inside the storage space of the step to quickly remove any slipping elements each time it retracts.
Climate Testing Facilities
Beyond field deployments, Ohmvo’s heaters can also play a role in R&D. Climate testing is necessary when designing HVAC systems for trains and trams for example, and heaters can be used in simulation labs to replicate passenger body heat. Easily adapted for use on both seats and hangers, these helped a German operator evaluate their HVAC system performance under realistic conditions, and are also being used by a Swiss-based laboratory.
Heating Solutions that Deliver
From preventing frozen couplings in Norway to supporting climate testing in labs, Ohmvo’s technology is proving its versatility and value across the rail industry. Whether integrated during vehicle design or retrofitted into existing fleets, these solutions help operators cut energy use, protect critical systems and ensure safe, reliable services whatever the weather.
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