Wabtec’s “green” braking solution begins French operations
- Pinnacle Team
- Sep 4
- 2 min read
Rail Brake Technology Innovation: Wabtec's New Green Friction Braking Solution
Rail technology leader Wabtec recently announced the first commercial deployment of its new brake lining technology on RER trains in Paris. This "Green Friction Braking Solution" is set to be installed on RER A railway vehicles, which run east to west across Paris and the Île-de-France region, from Cergy-le-Haut to Marne-la-Vallée Chessy via Gare de Lyon.
Reducing Particulate Emissions and Improving Air Quality
The core of this innovative technology is designed to address air quality and health issues from particulate matter generated in tunnels and subway stations. In partnership with RATP and Île-de-France Mobilités, Wabtec developed these linings using a "unique range of materials" during a year-long testing period.
Wabtec claims that the test results show up to a 90% reduction in emissions from the MI09 train braking system. "Through more than a million kilometers of testing, this solution has proven its ability to reduce emissions from train braking by an average of 70%, and up to 90%," said Wabtec. This is a major step forward in reducing brake-related pollution levels in the rail industry.
A Unique and Cost-Effective Solution
Philippe Nogues-Cubelles, Vice President of Wabtec's Friction Division, emphasized, "Green Friction addresses the root cause of the particulate matter problem. Wabtec is currently the only company in the rail industry to provide an operational, quickly deployable, and cost-effective solution for reducing brake-related pollution levels."
This innovative technology is attracting significant interest not only from the Paris subway system but also from several other countries across Europe and Asia. Wabtec has indicated it is receiving interest in this product from other French subway systems as well as from several unnamed countries.
Wabtec's new brake lining technology is expected to enhance the sustainability of urban transport and contribute to improving air quality and public health. We can look forward to seeing this innovative technology implemented in more cities and rail systems in the future.
June 12, 2024
