HVAC Systems Successfully Installed on Railway Track Grinding Locomotive
DCAirco has successfully completed the installation of its heavy duty railway rooftop air conditioning systems on a modern railway track grinding locomotive, further strengthening its position as a specialist supplier of climate solutions for demanding rail applications.
A total of six DCAirco DC24001 railway rooftop air conditioning units have been installed on the locomotive, providing reliable climate control across all critical onboard areas. The installation includes two units dedicated to the operator cabs—one on each side—ensuring optimal comfort and concentration for the drivers during extended maintenance operations. An additional unit serves the crew room, while three further units are allocated to cooling the electrical equipment compartments, safeguarding sensitive systems under continuous operating conditions.
Designed for Harsh Railway Environments
The DC24001 rooftop air conditioner is specifically engineered for rolling stock applications and complies with EN 45545 2 Hazard Level 3 (HL3) fire protection requirements, making it suitable for high risk railway environments. With a cooling capacity of 7 kW and an integrated 5 kW electric heating function, the system ensures stable interior conditions across a wide range of ambient temperatures, operating reliably at outdoor temperatures of up to 50 °C.
Each unit is powered by a 400 VAC primary supply with 24 VDC control voltage, supporting seamless integration with railway electrical systems. The systems are housed in corrosion resistant stainless steel enclosures with a robust powder coated finish, ensuring long service life under constant vibration, dust, and outdoor exposure typical of track maintenance operations.
Operational Reliability and System Monitoring
Track grinding locomotives operate in demanding conditions and require continuous, uninterrupted functionality. To support this, each DC24001 unit features an integrated PLC controller with diagnostic display, allowing operators and maintenance teams to monitor system health, alarms, and performance data in real time.
The cooling of electrical equipment compartments is particularly critical on track grinding locomotives, where power electronics generate significant heat during operation. By distributing three dedicated air conditioning units to these compartments, the system ensures optimal thermal management, improved reliability, and reduced risk of component downtime.
Compliance with International Railway Standards
The installed systems meet a wide range of international railway standards, including EN 14813 1 for driving cab air conditioning, EN 50121 and EN 61373 for EMC, vibration, and shock resistance, as well as relevant machine safety and fire resistance regulations. This compliance ensures safe operation across European railway networks and supports long term fleet deployment.
Supporting Crew Comfort and Operational Efficiency
By equipping both operator cabs and the crew room with high performance climate control, the installation contributes directly to crew comfort, alertness, and overall operational efficiency. Consistent temperature control and fresh air management help reduce fatigue during long working shifts, especially during intensive track maintenance activities.
A Proven Solution for Specialized Rail Vehicles
This installation demonstrates the versatility of DCAirco’s railway HVAC solutions beyond standard locomotives and passenger rolling stock. Track grinding locomotives, with their combination of crew areas and high density electrical equipment, require tailored climate solutions that can perform continuously in extreme environments.