1. The main role of seals in railway engineering
Waterproof and leakproof: seals are mainly used in railway engineering to prevent the leakage of liquids such as water and rainwater, and ensure the dryness and safety of railway facilities such as tunnels, bridges, and track plates.
Dust and dirt prevention: seals can also effectively prevent the intrusion of impurities such as dust and dirt, and keep railway equipment clean and operating normally.
Sound insulation and heat insulation: some seals have the functions of sound insulation and heat insulation, which can reduce noise and heat transfer during railway operation and improve passenger comfort.
Protective structure: seals can protect the structural integrity of railway facilities, extend their service life, and reduce maintenance costs.
2. Specific application of seals in railway engineering
Tunnel engineering
Tunnel closed door sealing: tunnel closed doors are important facilities for tunnel safety. Seals are used to ensure the tightness of closed doors and prevent the intrusion of moisture and harmful gases.
Tunnel ventilation system sealing: tunnel ventilation systems need to maintain air circulation. Seals are used to seal components such as fans and pipes to ensure the normal operation of the ventilation system.
Drainage system sealing: Tunnel drainage systems need to prevent water leakage, and seals are used to seal drainage pipes, water pumps and other components to ensure that the drainage system is unobstructed.
Track plate sealing
Track plate sealing: Convex stops need to be embedded between track plates, and sealants are used for fixed sealing to ensure the stability and safety of the track plates. Polyurethane sealants are widely used in railway caulking due to their excellent performance, but it should be noted that they may produce bubbles and poor weather resistance. Therefore, new sealing materials such as modified polyurethane sealants are being continuously developed and applied.
Vehicle sealing
Carriage door sealing: Carriage door seals are important components connecting car doors and vehicle bodies, and are used for waterproofing, dustproofing, sound insulation and heat insulation. The performance of seals directly affects the environmental quality in the car and the comfort of passengers.
Braking system sealing: The braking system of railway vehicles needs to maintain the sealing of high-pressure liquids to ensure the reliability and safety of the braking system. The application of high-pressure mechanical seals in the braking system can effectively prevent liquid leakage.
Cable and pipe penetration seals
In railway projects, cables and pipes need to pass through walls, floors and other structures, and seals are used to ensure the sealing of these penetrations. For example, Roxtec sealing systems are widely used in penetration seals for cables, drainage pipes, and electrical pipes, with the advantages of easy installation, reliable sealing, and long service life.
3. Development trend of seals in railway projects
High performance: With the continuous development of railway technology, the performance requirements for seals are getting higher and higher. Future seals will have higher resistance to high temperature, high pressure, and wear.
Environmental protection: The improvement of environmental awareness has prompted the use of more environmentally friendly sealing materials in railway projects to reduce pollution to the environment.
Intelligence: With the development of intelligent technology, future seals may have remote monitoring and early warning functions to improve the operational efficiency and safety of railway systems.
In summary, seals are widely used and important in railway projects. They not only ensure the safe and stable operation of the railway system, but also improve the travel experience of passengers. With the continuous development of railway technology, the performance and materials of seals will also be continuously optimized and innovated.
