When we get on a train, we expect it to be fast, comfortable and safe, but have you ever wondered what makes that experience possible?
At ZFoam, we believe that innovation starts in the invisible details: our technical foams play an essential role in improving the efficiency, comfort and safety of every journey.
We offer comprehensive solutions ranging from thermal and acoustic insulation to fire protection and vibration damping, all designed to optimise railway operations. These foams are applied to ceilings, walls, floors and HVAC ducts, improving operational efficiency, safety and passenger comfort.
The light weight of our materials contributes to reducing the overall weight of trains, which translates directly into a significant reduction in energy consumption and, consequently, lower operating costs. The acoustic insulation of our foams ensures a quieter environment inside the carriages, significantly reducing noise and vibrations, which translates into a more comfortable and pleasant travel experience.
We work with foams for the rail sector that offer exceptional performance, thanks to their low weight and ability to withstand adverse conditions. Among these solutions is one that is taking centre stage Plastazote® LD15 FM polyethylene foam, which has raised the quality standards in rail insulation systems.
Plastazote® LD15 FM: A light weight polyethylene foam
Plastazote® LD15 FM is a low-density cross-linked polyethylene foam with flame retardant properties that offers a unique combination of technical characteristics:
- Low nominal density (15 kg/m³): It contributes significantly to overall weight reduction, optimising energy efficiency during operation. They are the lightest polyethylene foams on the market.
- Excellent thermal conductivity: With a maximum value of 0.035 W/m-K at 10°C, it is a highly effective thermal insulator.
- Closed cell structure: Prevents moisture absorption compared to other open cell solutions, maintaining its long-term insulating properties and preventing material degradation.
- Highest fire classification R1/R10: HL1/HL2/HL3 according to EN 45545.
- Versatility of application: It can be installed on sides, roof panels or on the floor of railway vehicles, allowing an integral and efficient insulation.
- Durability: Its moisture resistance and stable structure allow it to maintain its insulating properties over a lengthy period of time, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
- Sound absorption: It offers good sound absorption properties at high frequencies, contributing to passenger comfort and reducing the need for additional sound insulation materials.
- Unique manufacturing process: Produced by pressurised nitrogen injection, without chemical foaming agents, resulting in a product without harmful chemical residues that could affect its long-term performance.
- Halogen free (HF) version available.
These combined characteristics make Plastazote® LD15 FM an ideal solution for industries looking for lightweight, safe and efficient thermal and acoustic insulation material.
Use in other industries
In addition to the railway sector, this material finds applications in a variety of sectors due to its unique properties:
- Aerospace industry: Its low-density, flame-retardant properties and compliance with strict safety standards such as ABDS 00321, CS25.853 and FAR 25.853 make it an ideal material for insulation in aircraft.
- Shipbuilding: It is used for thermal and acoustic insulation in ships, taking advantage of its moisture resistance and flame retardant properties.
- Air conditioning systems: Its low thermal conductivity makes it excellent for insulation in HVAC systems.
- Automotive industry: It is used in acoustic and thermal insulation of vehicles, contributing to weight reduction.
- Packaging and protection: Its impact absorption capacity makes it useful for protective packaging of sensitive products.
- Medical applications: Being non-toxic, latex-free and hypoallergenic, it is used in medical and orthopaedic equipment.
- Electronics industry: Provides insulation and protection in sensitive electronic components.
- Construction: Used for thermal and acoustic insulation in buildings, especially where flame retardant properties are required.
- Art conservation: Its chemical stability and protective properties make it suitable for packaging and storage of artwork.
- Sports and leisure: It is used in sports and personal protective equipment due to its lightweight and shock absorbing properties.
ZFoam’s commitment: Innovation, Sustainability and High Performance
The incorporation of technical foams in the design and manufacture of industrial products is a growing trend, driven by the need to reduce energy consumption and minimise carbon footprint.
With applications ranging from automotive to construction to electronics, technical foams, such as Plastazote® LD15 FM, have become an essential tool for companies committed to sustainability and efficiency.
Our ability to develop customised solutions for each sector allows us to drive efficiency and sustainability in a concrete and effective way, adapting to the needs of each project.
Would you like to know how our solutions can make your projects more efficient and sustainable? Contact our team to start building a better future.
