Review: HÖRMANN at the TRAKO 2025
The 3D-FiberTrain research project was presented at the trade fair: a novel, tool-free 3D printing process combined with load path-specific tape layup technology for large-scale rail vehicle components.
Advantages at a glance:
- ⚙️ Reduced tooling and production costs
- 🌱 Higher material and energy efficiency thanks to recyclable thermoplastics
- 🧵 Targeted continuous fiber reinforcement for maximum strength
Jointly with Siemens Mobility and partners such as Fraunhofer IWU, Fraunhofer IMWS, A+ Composites, Automation Steeg und Hoffmeyer GmbH and Lakowa GmbH, the potential was demonstrated using the Velaro MS (ICE 3neo) front section.
3D-printed Innovation Train - 1:20 scale model
Another highlight was the 3D-printed Innovation Train: a 1:20 scale model showing the latest technological developments from HÖRMANN.
The design was developed by the HÖRMANN design team as part of the Heat2Comfort project and optimized for 3D printing. Every phase - from concept to implementation - was carried out entirely at HÖRMANN.
Technological highlights of the model:
- ⚙️ INTEGRAL - Innovative lightweight roof
Highly integrated lightweight structure made of fiber-reinforced composite materials to reduce mass and assembly effort, including integrated air ducts and cable routes. - 🔋 Heat2Comfort - waste heat-based air conditioning
Utilization of waste heat from fuel cells for cabin conditioning. Improves thermal and acoustic comfort and extends the minimum range by up to 20%. - 🛠️ hybridBogie - next-generation bogie
Vibration-damping hybrid fiber composites with active suspension elements. Optimized load distribution, reduced noise emissions and longer service life. - 📐 PulPro-SMC - lightweight construction with pultrusion profiles
Combination of pultrusion profiles and sheet molding compounds for high-strength, fiber-reinforced and recyclable structures. Cost-efficient lightweight solutions for large-scale vehicle production.
This model combined technological excellence with creative, innovative design and showed how HÖRMANN is redefining the future of rail transportation.
