04 December 2024
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Train HVAC modules are equipped with remanufactured BITZER compressors and reconditioned fans by Siemens Mobility UK
Green Point UK, the compressor services arm of BITZER UK, is remanufacturing compressors used in train HVAC systems to original factory specification, enabling customer Siemens Mobility to keep its fleets running smoothly and achieve environmental and sustainability goals.
To date, Green Point UK has remanufactured more than 200 high-efficiency BITZER model 2FC-3.2Y-40S and ECOLINE 2FES-3Y-40S semi-hermetic compressors, key components of train HVAC systems that ensure comfort whatever the weather. The units are used on Class 185 and Desiro series trains, that operate all over the UK.
Siemens Mobility switched to using high quality remanufactured compressors due to the environmental benefits of reduced waste and embodied carbon, in line with the company’s resource efficiency goals, while reducing costs and ensuring rapid turnaround.
Paul Hawkin, Siemens Mobility UK Service Delivery Manager, said: "Our sustainability strategy does not end at our factory walls. We are aware of our responsibility to ensure that our suppliers match our sustainability goals.
"The embodied carbon and materials in equipment used on trains represents a big percentage of their environmental impact. Using high quality remanufactured compressors does not add to the carbon and material budget, while maintaining efficiency and quality. It's a win-win for the environment, our customers and society as a whole as we work to transform rail travel."
A batch of remanufactured BITZER compressors destined for Siemens Mobility UK
Compressors are delivered in batches to Green Point UK’s facility in Milton Keynes, where they are assessed and then processed according to the company’s global remanufacturing protocol, which returns them to original BITZER factory specification. To date, some 98% of units returned are suitable for remanufacturing, resulting in almost negligible wastage.
In line with planned preventive maintenance principles, compressors are remanufactured at a point in their working life that gives a comfortable safety margin before wear begins to take a toll, minimising the risk of breakdown in service and ensuring continuity of train air conditioning.
Will Pribyl, Green Point UK General Manager, says: “If a train air conditioning system fails, it becomes an immediate problem. Siemens Mobility UK takes a proactive approach that minimises this risk, and ensures HVAC systems are maintained in excellent working order at all times. This enlightened approach has benefits for all, and is a model for intelligent stewardship of cooling systems, given their importance to comfort and productivity.”
A train HVAC module undergoing refurbishment at Siemens Mobility UK’s facility in Goole
After remanufacturing, compressors are returned to Siemens Mobility UK’s Rail Village at Goole, its new train manufacturing plant and supply chain facility, which is a Net Zero site. The units are reinstalled into HVAC modules as part of a comprehensive planned maintenance overhaul. This includes reconditioning air conditioning fans, which are equipped with new bearings and restored to original factory spec.
The QR-coded remanufactured compressors retain the original BITZER compressor serial number alongside the new Green Point UK serial, giving Siemens Mobility UK full asset traceability throughout the equipment life-cycle.
As part of the agreement, Green Point UK holds stocks of replacement OEM components at all times, ensuring rapid turnaround.
