Leading stainless steel manufacturer Jindal Stainless has announced its contribution to the Vande Metro train project by supplying high-strength stainless steel, the company disclosed on Tuesday. The new Vande Metro trains, expected to commence operations in July, were recently rolled out by the Railways from the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai.
Jindal Stainless provided “201LN” stainless steel, which the company claims will make the train coaches lighter and more energy-efficient. This material is designed to enhance the overall performance of the trains, making them more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
Vande Metro trains are designed for shorter distances compared to the ‘Vande Bharat’ express trains, targeting routes of up to 250 kilometers. They are set to connect over 120 cities, with preliminary routes including Bhubaneswar-Balasore, Agra-Mathura, Chennai-Tirupati, Delhi-Rewari, and Lucknow-Kanpur.
The “201LN” stainless steel used for the Vande Metro trains reduces the thickness of the external panels from 3 mm to 2 mm compared to traditional ferritic stainless steel. This reduction not only decreases the weight of the coaches but also enhances energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The material boasts superior corrosion resistance, higher durability, and better crash-resistant properties, thereby ensuring enhanced safety for passengers.
Commenting on this development, Jindal Stainless Managing Director Abhyuday Jindal said, “It’s a privilege to play an instrumental role in Indian Railways’ decision to migrate from the ferritic grade to 201LN stainless steel for the first time ever. The lightweight and energy-efficient car body will reduce the carbon footprint of the Indian Railways and act as a catalyst to achieve its net zero target.” He added, “I am confident that Vande Metro trains will provide a world-class experience to passengers, and we are happy to partner with the Indian Railways on this project.”
The introduction of Vande Metro trains marks a significant step towards modernizing India’s railway infrastructure, focusing on sustainability, efficiency, and passenger safety. Jindal Stainless’s involvement underscores the crucial role of advanced materials in shaping the future of transportation in India.
