Transforming Railway Interiors with cutting-edge LEXAN™ Sheet Series at InnoTrans
At InnoTrans, the leading international trade fair for transport technology, POLYVANTIS made waves with the introduction of its latest LEXAN™ sheet series.
This new line of lightweight, fire-resistant polycarbonate (PC) sheets is designed to redefine the interior of rail vehicles, offering remarkable advantages in sustainability, durability, and compliance with stringent railway safety standards. With an innovative approach to materials science, POLYVANTIS is setting a new benchmark for the railway industry, proving that safety, efficiency, and design elegance can go hand in hand.
A New Era for Rail Interiors
In an industry where efficiency and safety are paramount, the debut of the LEXAN™ sheet series couldn’t come at a better time. As railway operators across the globe aim to reduce their carbon footprint, improve energy efficiency, and meet ever-tightening safety regulations, the need for innovative material solutions has never been greater. Enter POLYVANTIS’s LEXAN H6600 and H6900 sheets, which offer enhanced fire resistance, superior durability, and remarkable design flexibility.
“What makes this LEXAN sheet series truly stand out is its excellent thermoformability, high modulus, and durability, all while meeting new rail regulations,” says Stephan Plomp, Rail Leader of Strategic Growth at POLYVANTIS. “This provides new opportunities for a modern design of lightweight railway interiors. The optimisation of seat components and interior parts, including lighting, supports the continuous efforts of railway operators to reduce their carbon footprint and save energy without compromising on aesthetics, comfort, and safety.”
The Importance of Lightweighting in Rail Transport
One of the most significant features of the LEXAN sheet series is its contribution to lightweighting. As train operators strive for higher fuel efficiency, weight reduction is a critical factor. Lighter trains consume less energy, leading to reduced operational costs and lower CO2 emissions. The LEXAN H6600 and H6900 sheets allow for weight savings of up to 30% compared to conventional materials such as fibre-reinforced plastics (FRP) and aluminium, without sacrificing strength or durability.
Railway operators will appreciate the cost-effectiveness of these materials, not only in terms of upfront savings but also in their potential to lower long-term ownership costs. The robust yet lightweight properties of these sheets make them ideal for large interior components, from wall claddings and kickboards to lavatory modules and window frames.
No Compromise on Protection
Safety remains the cornerstone of railway operations, and POLYVANTIS understands that compliance with fire protection standards is non-negotiable. The new LEXAN series is fully compliant with international railway fire safety regulations, including EN 45545-2 (R1 HL2), TB/T 3237, and NFPA-130. These sheets are designed to withstand high heat while limiting the release of toxic smoke and gases, which is crucial in ensuring passenger safety during emergencies.
The LEXAN H6600, for instance, has been engineered specifically to meet these stringent fire safety requirements while maintaining superior performance in stiffness, durability, and aesthetics. Whether used for seat claddings or partition walls, this material provides peace of mind for both manufacturers and operators alike.
Passenger Comfort Meets Design Freedom
In today’s competitive railway industry, passengers expect more than just a safe ride—they want a comfortable experience. With the LEXAN H6900, POLYVANTIS delivers just that. This glass-filled polycarbonate sheet is lightweight, impact-resistant, and built to enhance the passenger experience. Its compliance with fire protection standards, such as EN45545-2 (R6 HL3) and UIC564-2, ensures that railway operators can prioritise both comfort and safety.
Not only does the LEXAN H6900 contribute to the fuel efficiency of trains, but it also allows for exceptional design freedom. Railway operators can integrate components and consolidate parts with ease, streamlining the manufacturing process while improving the aesthetics of train interiors. From modern seating solutions to durable window frames, this material enables a sleek, professional look without compromising on performance.
Sustainability at the Forefront
In an age where sustainability is no longer a luxury but a necessity, POLYVANTIS’s new LEXAN series is a standout performer. The environmental impact of materials is evaluated from cradle to grave, and this is where LEXAN excels. The sheets are produced with low water and energy consumption and have a lower CO2 footprint compared to FRP and aluminium. At the end of their life cycle, the materials are fully recyclable, aligning with the circular economy goals many countries and industries are working toward.
On a lifecycle basis, the benefits of the LEXAN series are undeniable. These materials reduce the environmental burden of manufacturing and disposal, providing a sustainable alternative to traditional materials used in rail interiors. For railway operators seeking to meet stringent environmental regulations while maintaining cost-efficiency, the LEXAN series offers an ideal solution.
Innovation Driven by Safety and Efficiency
“One of our strengths is innovation with a firm focus on safety and efficiency,” adds Geuch Zijlma, European Technology Leader at POLYVANTIS. “As a result, the compliant LEXAN sheet family represents a technologically advanced material solution to withstand the daily wear and tear of transportation.”
Indeed, POLYVANTIS’s reputation for innovation is well-earned. For decades, the company has been at the forefront of materials science, providing high-performance solutions across various industries. Its products, including the iconic PLEXIGLAS® and ACRYLITE®, are known for their durability, versatility, and ability to meet the demanding requirements of industries such as construction, automotive, and healthcare.
A Bright Future for Rail Interiors
With the introduction of the LEXAN sheet series, POLYVANTIS has once again demonstrated its commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation. The railway industry is rapidly evolving, and as the demand for greener, safer, and more efficient transport solutions grows, materials like LEXAN will play an increasingly vital role.
Whether it’s reducing the weight of trains to improve fuel efficiency, meeting the highest safety standards, or enhancing the passenger experience, POLYVANTIS is paving the way for a more sustainable and dynamic future for railway interiors.
