Alstom Support beam

grabcad

Alstom Metropolis Metro trains feature lightweight and affordable structural support utilizing standard IPE140 S275JR steel profiles. The innovative design incorporates a novel frame interface and alternative mounting method, employing "captive transit mounts." These mounts are widely utilized in various industries for their robustness and safety, while also reducing stress on support beams due to flexing capabilities. Although other materials were considered, IPE140 S275JR offered the optimal balance of lower weight, sufficient strength, and reduced costs. The original support beam design weighed 282kg/set of five at $1,800, equating to 56.4kg per support for $360 each. Notably, cost savings primarily stemmed from a 75% reduction in welding requirements. The new support weighs only 32kg and costs approximately $200, including mounts but excluding frame interfaces. This translates to a total weight of 160kg at a cost of $1,000, with the expense of new frame interfaces remaining unknown but believed to be less expensive due to their simpler design.