Retrofit Air Conditioning System for PT Kereta Indonesia EMD Freight Locomotives

DC Airco has successfully delivered a 7kW split air conditioning system as a retrofit kit for EMD GT38AC freight locomotives operated by PT Kereta Indonesia (PT KAI). The delivery supports PT KAI’s ongoing efforts to improve operator comfort and reliability within its freight locomotive fleet operating in Indonesia’s demanding climatic conditions. The supplied system is specifically engineered for 24/7 freight operation and is designed to operate on a 74 Vdc power supply, making it well suited for retrofit integration into existing EMD GT38AC locomotive platforms without major modifications to the onboard electrical architecture.

Retrofit Solution for Legacy Freight Locomotives
Many freight locomotives in long term service require modernization to meet current operational and comfort standards. The DC Airco 7 kW split unit 74 Vdc air conditioner was developed as a complete retrofit kit, enabling efficient installation on legacy locomotives while extending vehicle service life. The split design separates the condenser and evaporator sections, allowing flexible installation in confined locomotive spaces and ensuring optimal airflow within the driver cab. This approach minimizes downtime during installation and reduces the need for structural changes to the locomotive body.

Designed for Tropical Operating Conditions
Freight operations in Indonesia expose locomotives and crews to high ambient temperatures, humidity, and continuous duty cycles. The delivered air conditioning system is designed to provide stable cooling performance under tropical conditions, ensuring a comfortable and safe working environment for drivers during long shifts. With a cooling capacity of 7 kW, the system effectively maintains cab temperatures even during low speed operation, yard work, and heavy haul duties where airflow and heat dissipation are limited.

Improving Driver Comfort and Operational Safety
Cab comfort plays an increasingly important role in operational safety and efficiency. By upgrading the climate control systems on its GT38AC freight locomotives, PT KAI enhances driver alertness, reduces fatigue, and supports safe train handling during extended freight services across the network. The DC Airco retrofit kit is engineered for reliable operation, low maintenance, and straightforward servicing, ensuring long term performance in daily freight operations.

Supporting Fleet Modernization at PT KAI
PT Kereta Indonesia continues to invest in fleet upgrades and modernization projects to improve service quality and operational performance. The delivery of this retrofit air conditioning solution demonstrates a practical approach to enhancing existing rolling stock while avoiding the cost and complexity of full vehicle replacement. “With this retrofit solution, DC Airco supports operators such as PT KAI in improving crew comfort and extending the usable life of their freight locomotive fleets,” the company stated. “Our systems are designed to meet the real world challenges of heavy duty rail operations in extreme environments.”

A Proven Partner for Retrofit and Upgrade Projects
The successful delivery of the 7-kW split unit air conditioning system further demonstrates DC Airco’s expertise in custom HVAC solutions for both new build and retrofit railway applications. From passenger rolling stock to heavy duty freight locomotives, DC Airco provides climate control solutions tailored to regional requirements and operational profiles.