AMT 03
The safe, cost-effective and trouble-free operation of so many critical rail
applications – such as braking systems, pneumatically operated doors, self-
levelling air suspension, pantographs and the train's horn – depends on a reliable
supply of clean, dry compressed air, free from moisture and contaminants.
The importance of clean, dry
compressed air in the rail industry
The challenge
Compressors, generally mounted underneath the body of the train, draw in large volumes of air from the
surrounding atmosphere. This air typically contains water vapour and airborne contaminants.
As the air is compressed, vapour and contaminants are heated up and compacted. Aer subsequent
cooling by an aer-cooler, water vapour condenses within the air system to form liquid.
With oil-lubricated compressors, the lubricating oil degrades with the heat of compression and
combines with the condensing liquid to form acid condensate of varying viscosities.
Dryers and filters are used to remove this wet and dirty 'liquid emulsion' before it reaches downstream
applications, such as door and brake systems, where it can cause erosion, corrosion, reduced performance,
costly maintenance and safety implications – all of which affect the quality of rail service.
Brakes
Control
Sanding
Control
Doors & Steps
Control
Secondary
Suspension
Horn Control
HVAC Control
Coupling Control
Pantograph
Control
