Increase Train Safety With Pneumatic Drives From Aventics

The RTC-TD pneumatic door drives consist of system components from the standard pneumatic modular system from Aventics. The pneumatic specialists have integrated a cartridge solution for the valves into the end cover of the rodless cylinder. In contrast to valves mounted on profiles, according to the manufacturer, no pipes and pipe connections can come loose, which makes them robust and vibration-resistant. With the exception of the open / close control, all necessary pneumatic functions are integrated via the valves. The aim of the rodless drive in the RTC-TD series is to be more compact and lighter than electromechanical and other pneumatic solutions. It should be possible to set the closing speed as well as pneumatic damping and safe venting.

Pneumatic damping anchored in hardware

When opening and closing the doors, RTC-TD dampens the movement 80 mm before reaching the end position. This is made possible by the special design. The early braking should protect the mechanics and reduce the risk of passengers getting caught or their luggage.

In contrast to electromechanical drives, the construction of pneumatic drives is less complex. Because fewer components are included, the risk of parts failing should decrease. A two-stage throttling with fixed throttle cross-sections brakes the movement without electronics and mechanical wear parts. In the laboratory, Aventics adapts the drive module to the respective requirements of the door manufacturer. The once defined setting should simplify the assembly and commissioning of the door drives for the train manufacturer. Even if the door mechanism wears out, the controlled movement sequence is maintained throughout the entire service life without maintenance work, since the door speed is regulated by fluid mechanics.

Freight transport

The freight train of the future should relieve roads

Easy to open manually

Doors equipped with RTC-TD should be quick and easy to open by hand in emergency situations. If a power failure occurs and the emergency opening valve is actuated, the ventilation valve opens automatically and the pressure in the rodless cylinder drops to the level of the surrounding atmosphere. In contrast to electromechanical solutions, the passenger does not have to overcome the mechanical forces. The residual air escapes directly to the outside. As a result, the force required with RTC-TD is lower than with other pneumatic solutions.

Lifespan: 30 to 40 years forecast

The maintenance and repair of the units are straightforward, according to Aventics, because they consist of a small number of standard components. The maintenance technicians do not need to do any speed or damping adjustments after the replacement. The lifespan is expected to reach 30 to 40 years, depending on the air quality. The RTC-TD should reliably achieve the minimum life of door drives of 2 million kilometers, which is prescribed in Germany. The construction-like RTC-BV have been proven to last at least 5 million kilometers. This corresponds to a good 2.5 million cycles without adjustment work. The module should be designed for the typical rail temperature range from –40 ° C to 60 ° C and meet the relevant standards for vibration and impact resistance as well as fire protection. (sh)