In the scenario of sustainable mobility, the Hydrogen Train represents a significant revolution as Italy’s first fully hydrogen-powered train. Working directly with a major player in the railway industry, Eletech, Head of the International Design Centers of Elemaster, R&D division of the Group, has played a crucial role in this project, contributing its advanced safety and energy management systems to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the train. With its expertise in technological innovation and commitment to environmental sustainability, Eletech has once again demonstrated its ability to lead the industry towards a greener future.
What is the hydrogen train?
The Hydrogen Train is a state-of-the-art rail transport system that uses fuel cells to produce electricity by combining hydrogen and oxygen, generating water as the only waste product. Designed to operate on non-electrified lines, the train is a versatile and sustainable solution for various railway networks.
The core technology of this train is based on an intermediate car called the Power Car, which houses the hydrogen tanks and a system that combines hydrogen with oxygen from the outside air to generate electricity. This energy is then stored in lithium batteries, which assist the fuel cells during acceleration, significantly improving the train’s overall energy efficiency.
Sustainable benefits
The Hydrogen Train represents a major step forward in sustainable mobility. By using hydrogen as an energy source, the train eliminates CO2 emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment. The energy generated by the fuel cells is completely green, as the only waste product is water.
At Eletech, systems and devices are designed with a focus on energy efficiency, minimising waste and optimising energy use. Additionally, during the design phase, Eletech prioritises the maintainability and upgradeability of devices, ensuring a longer product life cycle. This approach not only reduces waste but also maximises sustainability, making Eletech’s contribution even more relevant in the context of sustainable mobility compared to traditional diesel trains.
The role of Eletech
Eletech played a crucial role in developing advanced safety systems for the Hydrogen Train. One of the key contributions was the power disconnection system in the event of train impact, designed to ensure operational safety of the hydrogen valve supply system in cases of abnormal acceleration or deceleration.
This cutting-edge device follows strict SIL2 safety standards for both hardware design (EN 50129) and software design (EN 50657), certified by TÜV.
The system operates through advanced accelerometers that detect irregular acceleration and automatically shut off the hydrogen valves in case of danger, helping to prevent accidents and ensure passenger and staff safety. The safety architecture is based on a dual-channel system with independent accelerometers and STM32 microcontrollers, ensuring maximum operational reliability.
Technological innovation for the future
Eletech’s involvement in the Hydrogen Train project required an innovative and highly technical approach. The company successfully integrated state-of-the-art safety technologies to develop a reliable and robust system. The train is equipped with advanced sensors and monitoring systems, ensuring safe and efficient operation in all conditions.
Looking ahead, Eletech sees enormous potential for expanding the use of hydrogen as an energy source in transportation. The success of the Hydrogen Train paves the way for new applications of this technology, not only in the railway sector but also in other areas of sustainable mobility. The company remains committed to developing innovative solutions that contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future.
Safety standards and certifications
To ensure its products meet the highest safety standards, Eletech adheres to international safety and quality standards.
The ISO 22163:2023 (International Railway Industry Standard, IRIS) certification is a clear example of the company’s commitment to best practices in the design and production life cycle of railway systems. Achieving this certification requires rigorous testing to guarantee safety, reliability, and interoperability.
Over the years, Eletech has gained extensive experience in designing functional safety and safety-critical systems (SIL). The Safety Integrity Level (SIL) is a key factor in the development of electronic and control systems that must ensure high levels of safety, particularly for railway applications. SIL standards, as defined by IEC 61508, are essential in maintaining functional safety in electrical, electronic, and programmable systems.
Additionally, Eletech operates an accredited laboratory to perform rigorous compliance tests, ensuring that all products meet regulatory certification requirements.
Testing includes:
- EMC tests (Electromagnetic Compatibility)
- Climatic tests
- Insulation tests
- Vibration and shock tests
All these tests are accredited under ISO/IEC 17025:2017, ensuring compliance with internationally recognised standards.
Railway product certification involves a comprehensive series of compliance tests to meet strict international regulations set by organisations such as the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardisation (CENELEC).
Towards a sustainable future
The Hydrogen Train is a milestone in Eletech’s innovation, showcasing the company’s commitment to developing solutions that enhance safety, reliability, and environmental sustainability. This project highlights Eletech’s dedication to clean and eco-friendly technologies, setting new standards in the railway industry.
Eletech’s product development processes follow the Ecodesign 2009/125/EC directives, ensuring that every device is designed with sustainability in mind. These principles include:
- Durability, reusability, upgradeability, and reparability of products
- Use of permitted components and substances (RoHS and REACH compliance)
- Reduction of energy consumption during both operation and standby
- Reduction of battery capacity for increased efficiency
- Minimisation of waste generated during production
- Maximisation of expected device lifetime
- Design for easy repair, disassembly, and upgradeability
- Lower carbon footprint, reducing greenhouse gas emissions for each project and product
With its strong commitment to technological innovation, Eletech continues to pave the way for a greener future in railway transportation, demonstrating how cutting-edge solutions can drive both performance and sustainability in the industry.