Latest hose technology helps rail industry meet new European standard

15 February, 2017

The operation and design categories according to EN 45545-1 are used to determine the hazard levels on which the requirements are based. This part specifies the test procedures, test conditions and requirements for each hazard level in terms of fire behaviour. These requirements are currently specified in 25 levels (R1-R25).

Test methods

The test methods are set out in detail. For example, lateral ‘spread of flame’ tests must be performed on vertical hanging samples in accordance with EN 5658-2, while the determination of optical density (smoke) must take place in a single chamber test complying with EN 5659-2. Further stipulations include the determination of the heat release and mass loss rate (cone calorimeter method) according to EN 5660-1, and testing for evidence of smoke toxicity according to NF X70-100 parts 1 and 2. There is also EN 11925-2 ignition testing for small parts and burning, dripping materials.

In the case of Parkers products, such tests are performed by certification company LAPI. The target for hose products is always to achieve high flame resistance through the use of special rubber compounds and the latest processing technologies. The principle of work is to operate as a development partner with customers to ensure hoses are safe, reliable, durable and flexible, and also offer trouble-free handling.

Parker is an experienced partner for rail applications and is certified to all required standards. The company has developed a wide range of hoses from low to high pressure for all relevant rail applications within locomotives, high speed trains, city trains, regional trains, trams, suburban trains/metros and track maintenance vehicles to meet the requirements of EN 45545-2. Parker is one of the first hose manufacturers to fulfil these new requirements in all classes.

Advantages

There is a strong demand for EN 45545-2 compliant hoses as mass transportation grows in importance and demand in many countries throughout the world is high. In Parker’s case the key to the success of many projects is the fact that Parker was the first hose manufacturer in Europe to develop a new rubber compound to the required standards of EN45545 in terms of fire retardancy, smoke behaviour and toxicity. The hose also delivers advantages such as a better bend radius to support easier design in and manipulation and assembly cost savings.

Hoses can be supplied for many rolling stock applications, including hydraulics (brake system, hydrostatics), pneumatics (brake system, suspension, auxiliary systems), cooling systems (water cooling, air conditioning), fluid conveying (diesel fuel, water for sanitary facilities) and heating (water).

Among the solutions available is the 681DB 2TE hose and 441RH compact hose, both of which feature carbon steel and stainless steel fittings. Also offered is the 477RH compact hose for very tight bend radii and the 421RH for large dimensions (up to 2”). In addition, the 372RH three-wire braid compact hose is designed for high pressures (4SP-level), while the 797RH Compact Spiral is suitable for applications where both high pressures and tight bend radii are required. All feature Parkrimp No-Skive crimping technology for those that prefer to make their own safe and reliable hose assemblies.