Cab Cooling Retrofit Kit for UK Class 153

DC Airco, a leading Dutch manufacturer of advanced climate control systems for rail vehicles, has successfully delivered a dedicated cab cooling retrofit kit for the UK’s Class 153 diesel multiple unit fleet. The delivery, completed on 17 April 2012, forms part of an upgrade program aimed at improving driver comfort on these widely used regional units.

The supplied system is based on the DC11000 rolling stock air conditioning platform, engineered specifically for railway driver cabs. Designed as a retrofit kit, it can be installed on existing trains without structural modifications thanks to its modular layout, flexible hose system, and self sealing quick connectors. This enables seamless integration into legacy fleets such as the Class 153.

Configured for the UK order, the delivered unit operates on 24 Vdc, making it fully compatible with the train’s onboard electrical systems. The system offers a cooling capacity of approximately 10,000 BTU / 3000 W, providing reliable performance even in demanding operating conditions.

As a split type system, the indoor evaporator—suitable for ceiling, wall, or floor mounting—is paired with a robust under frame mounted condenser. The unit is designed to meet key railway standards, including EN 14813 for cab climate control, EN 61373 for shock and vibration, and EN 45545 2 for fire safety. For drivers, the upgrade delivers a significant improvement in working conditions, particularly during warm weather operation on rural and regional routes. For operators, the retrofit approach reduces downtime, installation complexity, and long term maintenance demands.

DC Airco’s 2012 delivery underscores the company’s continued commitment to supporting rail operators with efficient, durable, and easily integrable HVAC solutions tailored to both new build and legacy rolling stock.