At InnoTrans 2016, Alstom unveiled its latest rail addition - the Coradia iLint - which is a zero-emission train. While many passenger trains operate with diesel on non-electrified networks, Cordia iLint is a new CO2-emission-free regional train and alternative to diesel power. Powered by an electrical traction drive — Coradia iLint is different from other rails due to its combination of clean energy conversion, flexible energy storage and smart management of energy.
Zero-emission technology
To achieve zero-emissions the Coradia iLint utilizes both battery systems and fuel cells. Manufactured by Akasol, the battery system allows for the trains diesel engine. Besides allowing for the battery to replace the need for diesel, it also allows for operation without cantenaries. The battery has a liquid cooling system that requires little to no maintenance. The battery also makes use of kinetic energy to store any unneeded energy that is generated from the fuel cell.
The train is outfitted with Hydrogenics fuel cells, which merge balance-of-plant into an integrated unit. The fuel cell combines hydrogen from the trains onboard tanks and oxygen taken from the air to generate clean energy. The end result is that the only exhaust that comes from the train is steam and condensed water. Hydrogenics signed a 10 year exclusive agreement to supply Alstom with hydrogen fuel cell systems for Regional Commuter Trains in Europe.
The system promotes reduced energy consumption through storage and intelligent energy management.
Energy saving air flow treatments
The Coradia iLint is equipped with an Knorr-Bremse Intelligent Air Dryer that is designed to be compact while utilizing intelligent control and monitoring. The amount of water that the air is able to hold increases as the temperature rises. Through the use of intelligent technology air loss is minimized and the use of advanced diagnostics can be implemented. The dryer also provides pre-filtration for bulk water, oil and particles.
Aimed at passenger comfort the air cooling system manufactured by Spheros works to communicate between the different components of the system to provide the optimal cooling operation, through use of a microprocessor system. The air cooling system saves energy through CO2 monitering and makes use of low-noise fans for air and no emissions or noise while using the electric heater.
Easy to maintain
The components outside the train are also designed with ease of use in mind. The Voith Schafenberg Coupler utilizes a gas-hydraulic damper and friction springs to reverse energy absorption, which is designed to protect both the train and the coupler from excessive loads. Ideal for low temperature climates the coupler also features heated front plates to ensure that operation continues with the same productivity.
As stated in the Alstom press release, the company is among the first railway manufacturers in the world to develop a passenger train that utilizes the technology. Alstom has announced that it offers Coradia iLint as a complete package, consisting of the train and maintenance, as well as also the whole hydrogen infrastructure out of one hand.
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