Jindal Stainless Ltd (JSL), India’s largest stainless steel manufacturer, announced on September 5 that it has supplied high-strength stainless steel for the Vande Bharat sleeper coaches. The prototype of these coaches was recently unveiled by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in Bengaluru. Jindal Stainless provided tempered 301LN grade austenitic stainless steel for the project, which is being manufactured by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) and Bharat Earth Movers Ltd (BEML).
These sleeper trains are designed for overnight journeys covering distances of 800-1,200 km. The tempered 301LN stainless steel used in the coaches offers enhanced durability due to its corrosion resistance, resulting in lower long-term maintenance costs.
In addition to durability, the steel provides increased safety, offering superior crash and fire resistance, which enhances passenger protection. Abhyuday Jindal, Managing Director of Jindal Stainless, said, “The use of tempered 301LN stainless steel will reduce the weight of each coach by around two tonnes, improving energy efficiency and reducing the carbon footprint, aligning with the sustainability goals of modern rail transport.”
With the capability to reach speeds of up to 160 km/h, the Vande Bharat sleeper coaches promise enhanced mobility, comfort, and modern amenities. The first batch of coaches is expected to be dispatched from BEML’s Bengaluru plant on September 20, 2024, with an official launch planned by December 2024.
Jindal Stainless Ltd is one of India’s largest manufacturers of stainless steel, known for its integrated operations that span the entire value chain from raw materials to finished products. Established in 1970, the company has grown into a global player in the stainless steel industry, supplying products to sectors such as automotive, construction, railways, and consumer goods.
With advanced manufacturing facilities in Hisar and Jajpur, Jindal Stainless produces a wide range of stainless steel products including flat and long products, catering to both domestic and international markets. The company is also focused on sustainability, investing in green energy and recycling initiatives as part of its commitment to reducing its environmental footprint.
