The testing laboratory VÚKV a. s. succeeded to obtain important orders from the producer Stadler Bussnang AG for the tests of the prototype zero emission unit for intercity transport FLIRT3 SBCTA H2 for San Bernardino County Transport Authority (SBCTA), California, USA in autumn 2023 and spring 2024.
The unit consists of two front parts for passenger transport and the intermediate part (Power Pack) which contains fuel cells and tanks for hydrogen storage. The fuel is there hydrogen transformed in fuel cells to electric energy by means of chemical reaction. The electricity will then utilized in traction motors or for battery recharge.
The testing laboratory VÚKV a. s. carried out for Stadler the safety against derailment tests on the twisted track in autumn 2023 and on-track strength tests of bogies in spring 2024. The tests were carried out on the Transportation Technology Center – TTC testing circle operated by ENSCO, Colorado, USA.
The tests were carried out by means of VÚKV a. s. measuring equipment which enabled the measurement of all required quantities in real time including their monitoring and subsequent evaluation.
The tests carried out proved the ability of the vehicle to adapt to the twisted track during the ride and the fatigue strength of bogie frames during the planned vehicle service life.
