Innovation against the heat: experiments with paint on TRAM Line 9 to cool the rails

Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat Valenciana (FGV) is carrying out a pioneering study to reduce the temperature of its tracks on Line 9 of the TRAM that connects Benidorm and DéniaThe initiative seeks to mitigate the effects of extreme heat on railway infrastructure.

Line 9 of the TRAM in Dénia, where white paint is being tested against heat

The project, a result of collaboration between FGV and the Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV) through the Vialobra Chair of Railways, explores the application of painting reflective white in strategic sections of the tracks. The main objective is to determine the capacity of this technique to reduce the surface temperature of the steel and, thereby, prevent possible deformations of the track, known as buckling.

The first actions are already underway on the TRAM d'Alacant network, focusing on curves with a radius of less than 200 meters on ballasted track. Preliminary results show a reduction in rail temperature of between 8 and 10 degreesThis significantly increases the safety margin against thermal expansion caused by high temperatures. This research is particularly relevant because, although other railway administrations use similar methods, there is no rigorous and accessible information on their benefits.

To date, FGV has painted more than five kilometers of track as part of the maintenance work in Alicante. Furthermore, these works are expected to be extended to various above-ground sections of the Metrovalencia network. This initiative stems from the need to adapt the railway infrastructure to increasingly extreme weather conditions, which have ceased to be exceptional phenomena and have become common planning considerations.

The FGV network has unique characteristics, combining long above-ground sections with underground and tramway sections. In the case of Alicante, its lines run along the coastal strip of the l'Alacantí, Marina Baixa, and Marina Alta regions, facing a complex topography that includes cliffs, ravines, slopes, and winding sections with tight curves and steep inclines.

Other measures against heat and climate change

Given these conditions, FGV is implementing various measures to address climate change and reduce its direct effects on aboveground railway infrastructure. These actions include reinforcing the track bed with the construction of ballast walls and sleepers; identifying and removing weakened trees at risk of falling; thoroughly inspecting and cleaning ditches, culverts, and water crossings during the summer; and regularly removing dry vegetation from the track bed to eliminate the risk of fire.