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Case study
± 3 min
NMBS test facilities ensure reliable trains
NMBS's mission in Belgium is: ‘To guarantee reliable, safe and efficient trains that you can count on day after day.’ To succeed in this, the organisation needs to invest in a high-end facility where testing can be carried out following thorough maintenance work. Merford has played a major role in delivering the most optimal acoustic solutions over the past years.
To guarantee reliable, safe and efficient trains that you can count on day after day.
Belgium’s National Railway Company
The National Railway Company of Belgium (SNCB - NMBS) transports passengers from A to B by train. In addition, it also manages all 555 stations in Belgium, handles train ticket sales and manages train traffic. One of its main tasks is train management, which consists of maintaining and renovating trains. Long-term maintenance is carried out at one of the two central workshops (CW).
From turnkey solution to advanced acoustic test facilities
Back in 2017, Merford provided the CW in Mechelen with a turnkey solution, an acoustic welding and blasting room equipped with ventilation, dust extraction with filtration and an internal crane track along with an acoustic solution. Following this successful collaboration, in 2022, we took the next step with NMBS. A project consisting of test facilities for various train components was discussed. After a public tender, the project was initiated: the design and construction of eight acoustic test cells. The aim is to allow various train components to be extensively tested after repairs or renovations. With the ultimate goal of increasing the technical reliability of Belgium's fleet of trains.
Captured on site
The test facility in operation
NMBS chose Merford because of its ability to meet the stringent requirements defined in the technical specifications. In addition, the total lead time of the project, including a timely delivery of initial design drawings, was a deciding factor.
Selected features of the test cells delivered:
- There is a high acoustic insulation requirement of RW 43 dB(A) for the outer shell.
- The acoustic panels have an impact-resistant function if parts come loose from the rotating machinery. Merford advised reinforced SKS panels with damping on the interior.
- A complex ventilation system with heat recovery, filtration and flow control for each test cell.
- Each testcell is fitted with individual dampers on the roof.
- The roof also features a full safety railing with cage ladders for easier installation and maintenance.
- Large acoustic doors and windows with the same acoustic insulation values for increased safety and easy internal transport.
With a total length of around 42 metres and a floor area of around 260 m² for the SKS test cells, this is a very complex project. The test facility has already been successfully commissioned.
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