TFW Class 769
News Article

TFW Class 769 Fleet to Receive DC Airco Cab Air Conditioning Upgrade

Sunday, February 7, 2021

Transport for Wales (TFW) has commenced a major cab comfort improvement programme for its Class 769 fleet, with DC Airco cab air conditioning systems being installed as part of a turnkey delivery by On Train Ltd. The upgrade will deliver a significant enhancement in driver comfort and working conditions in preparation for the 2021 summer operating season. The programme will see the fleet fitted with DC Airco DC11005 split cab air conditioning units, specifically engineered for railway driving cabs and well suited to both new build and retrofit applications on legacy rolling stock.

Turnkey Retrofit by On Train Ltd
The installation programme is being delivered by On Train Ltd, providing a complete turnkey solution that includes engineering, installation, and commissioning of the cab air conditioning systems. This approach minimizes vehicle downtime while ensuring consistent quality across the fleet. By upgrading the Class 769 driver cabs with a modern, reliable air conditioning system, TFW is directly addressing driver comfort, cab temperature stability, and occupational wellbeing during warmer periods of operation.

DC11005: Designed for Driver Cab Applications
The DC Airco DC11005 is a split type rolling stock air conditioning system designed specifically for railway operator cabs on trains and locomotives. The split configuration allows the indoor evaporator unit to be mounted flexibly—on the ceiling, wall, or floor—while the condenser unit is installed externally or underfloor, connected via flexible refrigerant hoses. This design makes the DC 11005 particularly effective for retrofit programmes such as the Class 769 upgrade, where space constraints and minimal structural modification are key considerations. Self sealing quick connectors allow the hoses to be disconnected and reconnected without refrigerant loss, simplifying installation and future maintenance.

Efficient Cooling with Railway Certified Design
With a cooling capacity of approximately 2,1 kW, the DC11005 delivers effective cooling for driver cabs while maintaining low power consumption. Operating on a 230–240 Vac supply, the unit is optimized for stable performance without excessive inrush current at startup. The system incorporates a PLC based controller with onboard diagnostics, enabling fault monitoring and straightforward servicing. Optional advanced control functions allow for potential remote monitoring and management. The DC11005 is fully compliant with key railway standards, including:

  • EN 14813 1 – Air conditioning for driving cabs
  • EN 50121 & EN 61000 – EMC compliance
  • EN 61373 – Vibration and shock resistance
  • EN 45545 2 – Fire safety for railway applications This ensures safe and reliable operation throughout the service life of the Class 769 units.

Improving Operational Comfort and Reliability
Driver cab comfort plays a vital role in maintaining concentration, reducing fatigue, and supporting safe train operation. By fitting the Class 769 fleet with modern, efficient cab air conditioning, TFW is investing in both staff wellbeing and long term fleet reliability. The upgraded systems will ensure stable cab temperatures even during peak summer conditions, supporting consistent performance across regional services operated with the Class 769 units.

A Proven Solution for Retrofit and Fleet Upgrades
The Class 769 project highlights the suitability of DC Airco’s cab air conditioning systems for fleet modernisation and retrofitted programmes. With flexible installation options, railway certification, and a strong focus on efficiency and serviceability, the DC11005 is well positioned for similar upgrades across the rail sector.

“Working together with On Train Ltd and Transport for Wales, this project demonstrates how targeted cab comfort upgrades can deliver immediate operational benefits,” DC Airco noted. “The DC11005 is designed to meet the real world demands of railway drivers and operators.”