AUTOMATIC TRAIN WASHING SYSTEMS

EKOLSER-DBF Automatic Train Washing Systems are custom-built facilities designed to efficiently and safely clean the exterior surfaces of railway vehicles using minimal water and labor. These systems are widely used by passenger train operators, metro networks, light rail transit (LRT) systems, and freight train companies.

Basic Types of Automatic Train Washing Systems

System Type Best Suited For Key Features

Drive-Through System (Fixed Gantries) Depots with high vehicle circulation The train moves slowly through stationary washing equipment.

Gantry / Rollover System (Moving Bridge) Smaller depots The washing machine moves along the stationary train to perform washing.

Portable / Semi-Automatic Systems Low-density operations Mobile washing equipment operated with manual assistance.

Robotic Washing Systems Specialized fleets Advanced systems featuring automated robotic arms for targeted cleaning.

Typical System Components

• Pre-wetting spray arches (nozzles)

• High-pressure water nozzles

• Rotating side brushes

• Roof brushes

• Front and rear (end) brushes

• Detergent dosing system

• Rinsing arches

• Water recycling and filtration system

• Drying blowers (optional)

• PLC-based automatic control system

• Train detection and positioning sensors

Typical Washing Cycle

1. Train detection

2. Pre-rinse

3. Detergent application

4. Brush washing

5. High-pressure rinsing

6. Spot-free rinsing (optional)

7. Drying (optional)

Typical Cycle Times:

• Trams: 2–3 minutes

• Metro Trains: 5–15 minutes

• Passenger Trains: 10–20 minutes

• Long Freight Trains: 15–30 minutes

Water Consumption

Average consumption rates for modern systems:

• Without water recovery: 800 – 2,500 liters per train

• With 70–90% water recovery: 200 – 700 liters of fresh water per train

Many systems integrate the following filtration units:

• Sand filtration

• Oil separators

• Biological treatment

• Water recovery storage tanks

Target Customer Profile

• Metro operators

• National railway operators

• High-speed rail (HSR) operators

• Tramway systems

• Rolling stock maintenance depots

• Freight rail companies

Key Selection Criteria

When evaluating a train washing system, consider the following parameters:

• Maximum train length

• Vehicle width and height

• Daily throughput capacity (traffic circulation)

• Water availability

• Water recovery requirements

• Climate conditions (freeze protection for cold regions)

• Available depot / site space

• Degree of automation

• Maintenance requirements

• Operational costs