Frost protection for rails, conductor rails and points
To ensure smooth and safe rail services in winter
Frost protection is just as essential on catenary wires as it is on other tracks and points; after all, if the points remain movable and the tracks are kept free of ice and snow, train services can run on time and reliably. Instead of being left out in the cold, passengers can commute on time and goods also reach their destination as planned.
Frost protection thanks to electrical heat tracing
Protection against frost is particularly important in rail transport to ensure that people and goods are transported safely from A to B. However, to keep rails and points free of snow and ice, optimised heat transfer from the heating cable to the rail or point is required. An additional cover profile protects the electric trace heating system from damage and reduces heat loss. The various trace heating systems can be installed quickly and easily and require little maintenance.
“EL-Point” points heating system
Our ‘EL-Point’ track heating system ensures that points can be switched without any problems, even in snow and ice. The system is highly adaptable, allowing for unevenness to be compensated for. This enables better heat transfer from the heating cable to the track structure, thereby increasing the rail temperature whilst using comparatively less power.
The “EL-Point” is insulated with a cover profile and fitted to the web of the stock rail on the outside. The rail web acts as a radiator to keep the space between the stock rail and the switch blade free of snow and ice. This saves on energy costs! The system can be precisely controlled using an intelligent control system, which reduces operating costs.
‘EL-Rail’ conductor rail heating
The ‘EL-Rail’ system consists of six series-connected resistance heating cables with a silicone outer sheath and fluoropolymer insulation that protects against moisture. The heating cable is attached directly to the rail using a cover profile and an individual retaining clip. This electric heating keeps the conductor rail free of snow and ice, ensuring that signals can be transmitted without disruption.
“EL-Track” conductor rail heating
The “EL-Track” system is eltherm’s solution for, amongst others, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (WMATA) for heating its current-carrying rails. The integrated EL-Track system is based on a compact, flexible parallel heating cable. A unique thermal insulation rail minimises heat loss to the environment.
Key facts
- Quick and easy installation and maintenance
- Optimised heat transfer
- Reduction in heat loss thanks to an additional cover profile
- Lower power consumption than alternative solutions
Complete system with control and monitoring
FAQ
As the heating cable is fitted to the outside of the switch blade, existing attachments may interfere with its installation. It must be checked on a case-by-case basis whether the type of switch in question can be heated.
eltherm also offers a heating system for the lock compartments.
The heating elements can be designed to operate at voltages ranging from 48V to 1000V AC/DC.
