Bemo Rail has delivered the first in a new series of hybrid shunting locomotives, equipped with Grayson’s advanced Battery Thermal Management System (BTMS).
The Netherlands-based rail experts, known for their innovation in shunting technology since the 1980s, approached Grayson in late 2022 to support the development of this innovative hybrid shunter, set to operate at an industrial steel factory. The project represents a significant step toward greener rail technology, with the new hybrid locomotive running on electrified power and using a generator for peak loads and charging the battery during less demanding tasks.
A crucial aspect of the locomotive’s performance was ensuring that the batteries operated efficiently across all conditions—from freezing temperatures to extreme heat—while minimising the risk of overheating and maximising the lifespan of the battery cells.
To meet this challenge, Bemo required a robust battery thermal management solution capable of delivering 14 kW of cooling and 5 kW of heating, across ambient temperatures ranging from -10°C to 40°C, all while being compatible with a 400V AC power supply.
We provided the ideal solution with our BTMS S1-400V AC (part number: BC-6728-000), a field-tested and fully homologated system from our comprehensive standard BTMS range. This plug-and-play unit offers reliable, high-performance refrigerant-based cooling and heating in one package, ensuring optimal battery temperature control.
Our proprietary ‘Grayson Intelligence’ controller ensures that the BTMS autonomously responds to the shunter’s CAN-based commands, with configurable set points that adapt to the locomotive’s operational needs. The system is capable of delivering up to 14 kW of cooling capacity when needed, ensuring the shunter’s batteries perform at their best, even in demanding industrial environments.
Matthew Hateley, Head of European Sales and Marketing at Grayson, commented: “We’re delighted to support Bemo Rail in delivering their new hybrid shunting locomotive. Our BTMS is helping push forward electrified solutions in the rail industry, and it’s fantastic to see it making a difference in real-world applications.”
He added: “As specialists in battery thermal management, it’s particularly rewarding that we could meet Bemo’s needs with a standardised solution. This project reinforces why we continue to invest heavily in new product development.”
Robin Okkerse, Project Manager at Bemo Rail, said:
“We have tested the BTMS extensively during our SAT (Site Acceptance Test) and were happy with the results that the BTMS has provided. The locomotive was recently put into production where the real tests will begin for the locomotive. Time will tell how the BTMS performs during day to day operation. So far, we are happy with the performance and results.
“We were looking for a suitable partner that could deliver a compact BTMS to optimise the performance and extend the life span of the battery pack of the hybrid system. We eventually landed on the BC-6728-000 from Grayson that fit our requirements and was compact enough to be able to implement into the design. From beginning to end, we are very pleased with the assistance and technical know how of Grayson. During testing we were also very pleased with the results of the BTMS and look forward to any other projects in the future.”
