Today’s train operators and manufacturers are challenged by the need for even lighter, more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly trains that do not compromise on safety or durability. But as comfort requirements increase, so does the weight of railcar bodies, typically constituting about 25 percent of the total weight. By opting for low-density, lightweight materials like insulation foam and PET-based foam, specifiers can cut wagon weight by 15-20 percent and enhance fuel efficiency. The material’s outstanding impact resistance allows for a durable sandwich structure with long-term performance, fewer repairs and easy maintenance in use. Based on 100 percent recycled material, it provides an economically and environmentally optimised core material solution for the manufacture of structural and interior train parts, from the driver’s cab, body shell and floor to doors, lavatory modules, compartment walls and tables. All sandwich constructions can be coated with a variety of materials helping operators stay in line with the industry’s high standards for hygiene and performance.

To ensure passenger safety, all materials used in rail vehicles must meet the stringent fire, smoke and toxicity requirements of the international rail standards. Our highly flexible, dust-and fibre-free materials achieve the most stringent hazard level for trains operating in underground track sections or tunnels. As a halogen-free product, ArmaPET^® is characterised by very low smoke generation and reduced smoke toxicity. In combination with appropriate laminates, ArmaPET Struct core sandwich structures also achieve the highest classification, which qualifies the material for use in all types of trains including metro, sleeper, and couchette cars.