GRP Rail Supplies Case Study
Our recent GRP rail supplies project focussed on GRP vs stainless steel in the production of oil drip trays for standing trains and rail track protection (RTP).
As all industries are working to reduce their waste, pollution and carbon footprint, one particular area the rail industry is focussing on is environmental protection against contamination from oil spillages and leaks on the rail network.
Specialising in rail network infrastructure and maintenance contracting, our client was looking for oil drip trays with separator function capability to be installed as a modular system and retro-fitted in fuelling depots and maintenance yards across the UK.
Our vast experience in GRP rail supplies projects meant we could support with a turnkey solution including design, product materials and coatings, environmental considerations and delivery.
GRP Rail Supplies – GRP vs Stainless Steel
Existing oil trays were made from stainless steel but our client wanted to look at opportunities to improve their design, materials, cost and efficiency, particularly at the installation stage and on-going product maintenance.
In comparing GRP (glass reinforced plastic) vs stainless steel as a solution, we very quickly identified many technical and design benefits to replacing traditional stainless steel with GRP. A substantial and direct benefit to the practical use of oil drip trays was the ability to mould a GRP design that would specifically prevent oil spills going straight to ballast and allow links to drains at one point, or with an interceptor.
In addition GRP has lightweight properties compared to stainless steel, meaning it is much easier, quicker and safer to assemble in situ, especially in a modular format. This prevents the need to uplift tracks and insert full drainage systems saving cost, time and preventing disruption to daily work routines.
Our GRP oil drip trays are finished in a chemical resistant flowcoat with a wax solution which increases life span and are easier to maintain and clean. This means they are also protected against corrosion from the weather and other chemical materials used within the rail maintenance.
Unlike stainless steel, GRP is not a conductor of electricity, meaning a much safer working environment, particularly important where there is high voltage equipment around the rail network depots.
Whilst the concept was similar to the old stainless steel units, we worked with our client to identify and qualify to a modified final design, before production in our Lancashire manufacturing site and delivery direct to depots.
Image Credit and Attribution: Supplied with authorisation by East Midlands Railway (EMR).
Should you transition to GRP or create Prototypes Before Mass Production?
Do you already have a product, but looking to modernise with more cost effective and efficient materials such as GRP?
Do you have an idea that you would like to prototype and prove concept before mass production?
Contact the team at AllScope Projects to see how we can support with GRP, carbon fibre design, prototypes and moulding to find the most cost effective solution for your next project. Call 01282 446330