The rail industry is forever rolling on, and innovation and efficiency are key drivers of this progress. In order to keep rail infrastructures running throughout the world, attention to the smallest details is vital, particularly when it comes to material selection for rail vehicles and carriages. Among the cutting-edge materials revolutionising the sector, HT800 silicone foam is a clear game-changer.

Renowned for its tremendous versatility, durability and performance, HT800 foam is setting new standards across a wide range of rail applications. From door seals and HVAC seals, to LCD display gaskets and lighting enclosures, along with vibration isolation applications and gap fillers, this high-performance material is ideally suited for the unique challenges of rail transport.

HT800 silicone foam is arguably the ultimate choice for modern rail solutions, contributing to enhanced reliability, safety, and cost-efficiency.

The challenges of the rail industry and how HT800 silicone foam addresses them

The rail industry faces unique circumstances that must be considered when selecting materials for sealing, safety and comfort applications. Trains face harsh environmental conditions, stringent safety regulations, and the need for long-term durability in high-vibration, high-impact environments. From exposure to extreme temperatures and UV radiation, to the constant wear of daily operations, materials used in rail vehicles and carriages must be designed to withstand many demanding factors.

In addition to the challenges listed above, there is also an increasing demand for lightweight materials that enhance fuel efficiency, whilst also maintaining structural integrity and ensuring patient safety. Balancing these requirements is a complex task for rail manufacturers and engineers.

HT800 effectively addresses the challenges of the rail industry with exceptional versatility and performance.

• Its closed-cell structure provides resistance to various environmental factors, including moisture, dust, and UV exposure, which ensures reliability in outdoor and harsh environmental conditions.
• HT800 has a wide temperature tolerance (-55℃/+200℃) and flame resistance, making it ideal for applications requiring compliance with safety standards such as EN45545-2 for rail fire safety and low smoke toxicity. This helps ensure passenger and equipment safety.
• Its ability to absorb vibrations and as a robust seal or gap filler minimises wear on critical parts to improve the lifespan of rail components, reducing maintenance costs in the long term.
• HT800 is lightweight and flexible, reducing the overall system weight, while maintaining structural integrity. This contributes to improved fuel efficiency and design flexibility.
• It has a low compression set, meaning that the material returns to its original shape and sealing properties even after prolonged compression, ensuring a consistent performance over time.
• HT800 silicone foam can be die-cut or converted into custom shapes to fit specific applications. For example:
  • Gaskets
  • Strip
  • Washers
  • Sheeting
  • Extrusions
  • Fabrications

Rail applications

With its durability, flexibility and versatility, HT800 is commonly used in a wide range of key applications in the rail industry, including:

• Door seals – ensuring airtight and watertight protection in all weather conditions.
• HVAC seals – enhancing HVAC system efficiency, and reducing noise.
• LCD display gaskets – protecting sensitive components from dust and the impact of vibrations generated by rail travel.
• Lighting enclosure gaskets – Ensuring safety and durability in lighting systems.
• Vibration isolation and gap fillers – improving passenger comfort and the lifespan of equipment within rail vehicles and carriages through reducing vibration and noise.

As an EN45545-2 compliant material, all HT800 components are designed to withstand fire, preventing its spread without generating toxic gases, and helping to keep passengers safe.

The benefits of using HT800 for rail applications

Using HT800 foam in rail applications is extremely beneficial for both operators and passengers. By providing excellent sealing, durability and vibration absorption HT800 greatly enhances the reliability of rail systems by minimising failures and downtime. Its ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions and maintain performance over time reduces maintenance and operational costs to deliver long-term cost efficiency.

HT800’s noise and vibration dampening qualities help to improve passenger comfort through creating a smoother and quieter traveling experience, whilst also providing essential safety and efficiency qualities.

Enhance your rail applications

HT800 silicone foam stands out as the ultimate material for rail applications, providing unmatched versatility and essential properties to address the biggest challenges of the sector. Its durability, sealing capabilities, vibration absorption and flame resistance make it an ideal solution for applications ranging from door seals and gap fillers, to lighting enclosure gaskets and HVAC seals.

HT800 enhances the reliability of various rail systems to drive efficiency and innovation. If you are looking for a high-performance material to optimise performance, safety and cost-effectiveness in the rail industry, then HT800 should be considered.

For advice on material selection, or our manufacturing expertise, contact CB Frost by calling +44 (0)121 773 8494.

You can purchase HT800 sheeting and strips with ease through our online shop.