Our dedicated operating department is bringing our renowned coating systems to a range of rail sector applications – from rolling stock to track and station infrastructure. Having long operated in demanding sectors such as the aerospace and offshore industries, we have not only developed a range of products that meet many of the needs within the rail sector but we can also provide a highly experienced and focused research and development capability. This allows us to work closely with customers to develop, test and supply coating systems that match precise operational needs. Importantly, we are able to do so in quantities and order patterns that can be tailored to each customer’s exact requirements.
Our range of coating product examples are already bringing gains to our rail industry customers. With rolling stock, for example, these encompass both undercarriage and livery applications that meet performance, protection and aesthetic objectives. RWIP120 coating system is a prime example. Fully compliant with CR/PE0102 Repainting of Rail Vehicles specification, it offers a range of performance benefits and, significantly, is available as either a one or two coat system.
Undercarriage coating objectives can often be achieved by the use of the system as a single 120 micron primer/finish coating, particularly as there are no specific aesthetic considerations while, in other areas, it can comprise a separate 60 micron primer with an additional 60 micron finish coat. Where appropriate, it can also then be over-coated with other Indestructible Paint finishes, epoxies and polyurethanes while customer needs can be further met by a choice of colours in a matt, semi-matt, semi-gloss or gloss finish.
RWIP120 has been proven on a range of substrates, many of which are a common feature in the rail sector. These include steel, aluminium, galvanised and composite surfaces which all gain from the composition of the epoxy and its chemical bonding characteristics. The performance capability of the RWIP120 range covers a long list of challenges faced by rail operators. From impact, chip and scratch resistance to the ability to withstand high humidity environments, all are key benefits as are proven resistance to abrasion, salt spray and wash plant operations.
The commitment to developing coatings to meet exact requirements is further demonstrated by two associated systems:
- RWIP1000, a single component water-based intumescent coating developed to enhance fire resistance on timber flooring inside the carriage.
- RWIP3000, a two component epoxy-based air drying or forced drying intumescent coating which has been developed to provide enhanced fire resistance for metallic, timber and composite substrates.
Both products have been specially developed for use in the rail industry on vehicle components and civil installations and both are particularly resistant to high air movement while maintaining excellent adhesion after they have intumesced.
Other examples of products that offer key gains in the rail sector:
- RWIPAPF, a high quality alkyd primer finish coat which delivers excellent corrosion and weather resistance
- RWThin, which provides a cleaner and thinner performance for both greasy and corrosion protected parts.
There is a clear link between our methods and technology and the ongoing build and maintenance needs of the rail operating field. By applying experience and methodology that has enabled us to work closely with major global manufacturers in fields such as aerospace, we are confident that we will be able to bring important performance, cost and safety benefits to the full list of rail industry organisations.
