TRANSPORT SPOTLIGHT


Siemens Mobility UK powers ahead with remanufactured compressors


Green Point UK, Bitzer UK’s compressor services arm, is remanufacturing air conditioning compressors used in train HVAC systems to original factory specification, enabling customer Siemens Mobility to keep train fleets operating in tip-top condition and achieve its environmental and sustainability goals.


T


o date, Green Point UK has remanufactured more than two hundred high-efficiency Bitzer model 2FC-3.2Y-40S and Ecoline 2FES-3Y-40S


semi-hermetic compressors, key components of train HVAC systems that ensure comfort whatever the weather. The units are used on Class 185 and Desiro series trains, that operate all over the UK. Siemens Mobility switched to using high quality remanufactured compressors due to the environmental benefits of reduced waste and embodied carbon, in line with the company’s resource efficiency goals, while reducing costs and ensuring rapid turnaround.


Paul Hawkin, Siemens Mobility UK service delivery manager, said: “Our sustainability strategy does not end at our factory walls. We are aware of our responsibility to ensure that our suppliers match our sustainability goals.” He added: “The embodied carbon and materials in equipment used on trains represents a big percentage of their environmental impact. Using high quality remanufactured compressors does not add to the carbon and material budget, while maintaining efficiency and quality. It’s a win-win for the environment, our customers and society as a whole as we work to transform rail travel.” Compressors are delivered in batches to Green Point UK’s facility in Milton Keynes, where they are assessed and then processed according to the company’s global remanufacturing protocol, which returns them to original Bitzer factory specification.


To date, some 98% of units returned are suitable for remanufacturing, resulting in almost negligible wastage.


In line with planned preventive maintenance principles, compressors are remanufactured at a point in their working life that gives a comfortable safety margin before wear begins to take a toll, minimising the risk of breakdown in service and ensuring continuity of train air conditioning. Will Pribyl, Green Point UK general manager, says:


“If a train air conditioning system fails, it becomes an immediate problem. Siemens Mobility UK takes a proactive approach that minimises this risk, and ensures HVAC systems are maintained in excellent working order at all times. This enlightened approach has benefits for all, and is a model for intelligent stewardship of cooling systems, given their importance to comfort and productivity.” After remanufacturing, compressors are returned to Siemens Mobility UK’s Rail Village at Goole, its new state-of-the-art train manufacturing plant and supply chain facility, which is a net zero site. The units are reinstalled into HVAC modules as part of a comprehensive planned maintenance overhaul. This


30 January 2025 • www.acr-news.com


includes reconditioning air conditioning fans, which are equipped with new bearings and restored to original factory spec’. The QR-coded remanufactured compressors


retain the original Bitzer compressor serial number alongside the new Green Point UK serial, giving Siemens Mobility UK full asset traceability throughout the equipment life-cycle. As part of the agreement, Green Point UK holds stocks of replacement OEM components at all times, ensuring rapid turnaround. Paul Hawkin said: “We were impressed by Green Point UK’s approach, and the fact that they are part of Bitzer as the manufacturer, with access to all original parts and engineering data. It provides assurance that work will be done to the highest standards.” Bitzer’s Ecoline range of semi-hermetic


reciprocating compressors are a proven workhorse, combining high efficiency, a wide range of applications, flexible refrigerant selection, quiet running, and excellent reliability. They can be used with a wide range of refrigerants, including very low Global Warming Potential HFC and HFO-blend fluids.


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