Feature: Components
Non-flammable materials Te SL-FST consists of a stainless-steel core encapsulated in a halogen-free and low-toxic thermoplastic compound. Te material is flame-retardant and corrosion resistant. Because of its properties, the plastic
edge protection normally used in the rail industry is more likely to dry out and become brittle if exposed to heat and cold for long periods of time. It can break under sufficient pressure, stress or vibration. However, the special composition of SL-FST makes it very resistant to extreme temperature fluctuations, hence the edge protector can be attached to the train, both inside and outside. Even the high vibrations occurring on high-speed lines can be absorbed by the special construction of a securely-fitting steel core and resistant plastic. SL-FST is designed with a steel core
with castles, or gripping teeth, that angle into the edge, creating edge retention without adhesives. DTi’s engineers have used their experience from the aviation industry to develop the SL-FST, as the material has to perform under extreme speeds, G-forces and vibration environments in aircraſt. In particular, the performance of the
material in contact with fire was a key factor in its adaptation to the European railway sector, since many sections of track run through tunnels, and fire safety requirements are particularly high in Europe. To adhere to these requirements, DTI’s
engineers have optimised the plastic so that in terms of flammability and toxicity it does not add to the smoke and fire development, as do some plastics that contains certain additives or are attached with adhesives. In practice this means that, in a fire, the SL-FST will not aid combustion, burn insignificantly, and will only produce a very small, insignificant amount of smoke. As a result, the material meets the strict requirements of DIN EN 45545-2 and is qualified for Hazard Levels 2 and 3, which are the highest material-technical requirements within the framework of this DIN.
Figure 1: The extensive network of cables is hidden in walls, floors and ceilings, mostly in very confined spaces
Figure 2: The edge protector can be simply pushed on along the shape of the edge and pressed firmly into place
Easy assembly Te SL-FST can be installed quickly and easily without adhesives, minimising production or set-up time from several minutes to a few seconds. To achieve this, the edge protector simply has to be pushed on along the shape of the edge and pressed firmly into place. Te SL-FST castles lock automatically and provide strong edge retention. Equally, the protection can be easily removed again. Since no adhesives are used, workers are no longer exposed to toxic chemicals (VOCs) and odours, and do not have to wear gloves or masks when attaching the edge protection. Adhesives and other solvents must be specially stored and disposed of and must be clearly identified by warning notices.
Figure 3: The SL-FST edge protection consists of a particularly hard-wearing, non-flammable and steel-reinforced special thermoplastic
As a result, productivity can be
increased enormously because the same number of parts can be installed in a fraction of the time it normally takes. This even leads to an overall cost reduction of up to 49% compared to adhesive-based plastic variants, as less working time and costs are required for the additional steps and materials that would otherwise be necessary.
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