Rail transport
THE SECTOR
The railway sector is experiencing significant growth, driven by a renewed focus on rail travel and the vital role it will play in achieving environmental sustainability.
As it is among one of the most energy-efficient modes of transport and produces the least amount of emissions, the rail sector receives substantial investments through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR).
THE CUSTOMER
MA GROUP S.P.A.
MA Group is an Italian company specializing in technical assistance, maintenance and testing of trains and railcars.
Together with Arsenale, Trenitalia - Gruppo Ferrovie dello Stato, and Fondazione FS, the MA Group was responsible for the restoration and modernization of several historic trains used to transport travelers through the wonders of Italian landscapes, following the example of the Orient Express.
Thermal and acoustic insulation in historic railway cars
THE PROBLEM
The client entrusted Athena with the identification, design, and supply of a thermal-acoustic insulation system for the vintage “La Dolce Vita” trains, as part of the prestigious project launched by the Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane, Italy’s state railway company, to refurbish historic train cars.
Starting with train cars dating back to the 60s and 70s, from which all the original elements had been removed, Athena worked to identify the best combination of materials that would the meet very specific industry requirements, such as low thermal conductivity, high acoustic performance, superior resistance to combustion, and the ability to withstand vibrations.
High performance thermal and acoustic insulation
THE SOLUTION
In collaboration with Sekisui - a company specializing in the production of insulating materials for railway applications - Athena identified the ideal acoustic and thermal insulation solutions to meet the rigorous standards required for this specific project in compliance with ISO EN 45545-2 for HL1, HL2, and HL3 hazard level classifications, ensuring excellent fire-smoke resistance.
Next, Athena determined the dimensional values, and then adapted and customized the insulating panels to the highly variable dimensions of each specific train compartment.
The materials used have a partially open cell structure and, thanks to their low thermal conductivity and high performance, they were able to effectively meet the need to use insulation of reduced thickness compared to other conventional solutions available on the market.
The result was a complete conversion of dozens of rail cars, insulated and ready to accommodate all the decor and furnishings of this original project. A turnkey solution for high performance insulation.
Applications
Railway
Our expertise deployed
Our expertise
