Efficient and safe connection technology for the railway industry
The railway industry faces the challenge of meeting the highest safety and quality standards under increasingly complex operating conditions. Standards-compliant electrical connections play a crucial role in this context. SNAP IN connection technology offers innovative solutions to meet these requirements.
SNAP IN connection technology provides the railway industry with a future-oriented solution for electrical connections Its simple, tool-free handling and high level of safety set new standards in the wiring of rail vehicles Reliable connection of solid and flexible conductors, with or without ferrules, enables time savings of up to 80 percent during wiring compared to conventional spring-based connection technologies. Front-access wiring also improves accessibility, even in confined control cabinet spaces, thereby reducing potential sources of error. In addition, the design of SNAP IN terminal blocks is optimally suited for automated wiring processes. This further increases manufacturing efficiency and reduces production lead times. Spring-based connection technology ensures consistently high contact pressure, so that connections remain secure and reliable even under strong vibration and shock conditions typical of railway operation. High contact quality prevents corrosion and ensures a long service life for the connections.
In terms of user-friendliness, SNAP IN technology is characterised by intuitive operation. Conductors can be inserted without effort; successful connection is confirmed acoustically by an audible “click” and visually by the raised green push button. Integrated test points also allow quick and safe measurements without having to disconnect the connection. The technology is highly flexible and supports various conductor types and cross-sections, making it particularly versatile for railway applications. SNAP IN combines numerous advantages that meet the railway industry’s high requirements for safety, reliability, and efficiency. The connection system not only enables faster installation and reduced maintenance costs, but also makes a significant contribution to the operational safety of modern rail vehicles. In view of increasing system complexity and strict regulatory requirements, SNAP IN represents a future-proof solution for electrical connection technology in the railway sector.
To ensure technical safety, compliance with shock and vibration resistance in accordance with EN 61373, as well as fire protection requirements according to EN 45545-2, is essential. For connection technology, these criteria are key prerequisites for use in equipment for rail vehicles in accordance with EN 50155. In addition to shock and vibration resistance and fire safety, EN 50155 also defines the operating conditions that equipment must withstand with respect to environmental influences such as temperature and humidity, in order to ensure robust and long-lasting system functionality. When developing innovations for railway systems, it is important to consider not only technological aspects but also process-related factors. These are monitored and assessed for potential risks through the railway-specific quality management system ISO 22163 (formerly IRIS), which is based on ISO 9001. The objective is to continuously improve product quality and safety through innovation without introducing unacceptable risks. This ensures that all components function reliably in the harsh railway environment and meet the highest safety standards.
As part of the Munich S-Bahn project by Siemens Mobility GmbH , SNAP IN terminals are being used in a wide range of applications. They perform key functions in onboard power distribution and in the potential distribution of train control lines—both in the electrical equipment containers on the roof and in the interior and underfloor areas of the vehicles. In addition, they ensure stable power supply for display systems and electrical heating equipment. SNAP IN terminal blocks also play an important role in the driver’s desk, where they support the safe and efficient distribution of switching signals and ensure the reliable transmission of automatically recorded sensor signals to module control units, such as the Brake Control Unit. In Traxx locomotives from ALSTOM, SNAP IN terminal blocks are used extensively in control and auxiliary power applications. They perform central functions in onboard power and potential distribution within the vehicle. In addition, they support the safe distribution of switching signals and the reliable transmission of sensor signals to control units.
In rail vehicles such as Traxx locomotives (ALSTOM) and the new S-Bahn trains for Munich (Siemens Mobility GmbH), reliable and low-maintenance connection technology is critical. Tool-free connection with automatic contacting significantly reduces installation time and offers clear advantages in series production. SNAP IN enables fast and error-free wiring in confined installation spaces and ensures permanently secure connections even under strong vibration. Reliable contacting minimises the risk of connection failures that could lead to malfunctions or safety issues. In this way, SNAP IN technology meets the requirements for operational reliability and efficiency in rail vehicles.
