We interviewed Javier Maide, our Technical Pre-Sales Office Manager, about the advances and challenges in fire extinguishing systems in the railway sector. Maide explains how innovation and digitalisation are redefining these systems to handle the most demanding conditions, while always guaranteeing safety and efficiency. In this interview, he also shares his vision on future trends in the field of railway safety and offers useful advice for those wishing to pursue a career in railway engineering.
1 What recent innovations have you seen in the field of extinguishing systems as applied to the railway sector?
The extinguishing systems integrated into fire fighting systems have evolved to meet the sector’s requirements: robustness, safety and digitalisation. Thus, solutions has been adapted to respond optimally under hostile conditions, such as vibrations, temperatures and impurities. Moreover, systems are increasingly introducing electronic components that digitalise the solution, making it more versatile. Finally, safety requirements, which are so strongly present in the sector, are being applied now to the extinguishing equipment and we are now working with SIL 2 components in basic components such as valves, aerosols, etc.
2 What are the biggest challenges you face when implementing these systems?
The most challenging phase is designing the solution. Fit all the requirements of the various actors: local regulations in terms of operating times, operator certifications, sizing of equipment and integration in increasingly interrelated solutions is like solving a puzzle. However, if I had to choose only one, I would say “weight. It is of the utmost importance to find the most efficient solution regarding weight; we, railway engineers, are always dealing with the overall weight of the vehicle; it always results in a safer transport.
The importance of complying with safety regulations and standards
3 How do you ensure that extinguishing systems comply with safety regulations and standards in the railway industry?
All installed extinguishing systems have individual certifications. The entire system must also have global safety certification. Moreover, the client’s safety teams, and the operator, must validate the solution. And, before being put into operation, the proposed solution is audited by an external agent according to international standards.
4 Can you share a recent project you have worked on that highlights the importance of extinguishing systems in railway safety?
We are now working on the high-pressure water mist solution that Triple E is going to implement in the vehicles that CAF will manufacture for Metro de Madrid. That’s great because it will mean another step forward in our boutique concept. The system will be supplied fully integrated into a frame, of course according to our total commitment to customised design. The customer will receive the material just to fix and connect.
Future Trends in Railway Extinguishing Systems
5 What trends do you think will appear in the future of extinguishing systems in the railway sector?
Digitalisation and intelligence with electronic communications, coupled with optimisation of reliability. This will mean minimised failure rates, redundancies and no false activations. This will contribute to respect for the environment since efficient and harmless fluids will be used whenever possible.
Recommendations for new generations of railway engineers
6 One last question: What advice would you give to young professionals who are interested in a career in railway engineering?
Test your work and solutions in day-to-day practice. ”Hold your feet to the fire” and always test theoretical exercises with practical cases. Every design must be tested before it becomes part of any vehicle.
