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Since 1976, Thermal-Flex High Capacity
Switch Heating Systems have been subjected
to the tough climatic conditions of
severe northern winters. Thousands
of systems have been delivered to
U.S. and Canadian railroads since
1978.
This railroad switch heating system
utilizes materials and techniques
developed by Thermal-Flex, Inc. for
relieving internal stresses created
in massive steel parts (ex. pipes,
valves, etc.) by the heat of welding.
The elements of the system are tough
and long lasting, since they were
originally designed to withstand the
wear and tear of repeated use in the
rugged conditions of the construction
sites.
The elements of the Thermal-Flex
High Capacity Switch Heating System
are shown in the drawing below.
The Thermal-Flex heating cable is
encased in a spirally fluted, watertight
tubing and is positioned at the neutral
axis of the outside of the stock rail.
The heater is covered by thermal insulating
material.
An aluminum shield covers the insulating
material. The entire assembly is held
in place by steel track clips.
The heart of the system is the unique
heating cable, which has been perfected
and utilized by Thermal-Flex Systems
for more than 25 years. It is used
in stress-relieving systems by major
power facilities, engineering/construction
firms, the U.S. Navy and many manufacturing
facilities.
Railroad Experience
The first Thermal-Flex Switch Heating
System was installed in November of
1976 on a 30 foot spring switch for
the main line of the Central Vermont
Railway at White River Junction, Vermont.
This prototype was improved by the
addition of two crib heaters to heat
the rod areas. This improved system
was installed on a 22-foot power operated
switch at the same Vermont location.
Following further refinements, thousands
of Thermal-Flex switch heating systems
have logged additional experience
on other North American railroads
under a wide range of climatic and
operating conditions.
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