Railcar Rubber Products and Flame, Smoke, and Toxicity (FST) Standards
Railcar rubber products need to meet flame smoke, and toxicity (FST) standards that protect human health and safety. Fires that burn railcar seats, floors, wall panels, and other interior components don’t just cause immediate injuries and fatalities. Flames can release smoke that obscures escape routes. Burning rubber that releases toxic gases can also overwhelm passengers and employees.
Suppliers offer compounds that meet FST standards, but design engineers still facing a challenging task. The flame, smoke, and toxicity standards for railcar materials vary widely. Designers need to familiarize themselves not just with different standards, but with standards used in different countries. By partnering with the right fabricator, however, you can source the right rubber products for sealing and insulation. (more…)
