POWER WASHING TRAINS AND RAILCARS

When it comes to the rail industry, maintenance isn’t just about keeping the roller bearings, brakes, and other components in good working order. An important aspect of the maintenance regimen of any company in the sector is keeping the trains clean, and there’s no better way to look after the exterior of trains than power washing. It’s best to have professional power washing companies perform the work since they will be able to clean all equipment adequately based on applicable industry regulations, including how specific railcars need to be cleaned. Performing services without first knowing what needs to be cleaned and how it should be cleaned could leave unsuspecting railcar owners with hefty legal sanctions due to non-compliance with the law. CLEANING UP THE OUTSIDE: After selecting and utilizing the appropriate soaps and chemicals, power washing contractors will typically start from the top of the railcars and work their way down the sides, doing the wheels and carriage of the railcars. Cleaning the outside of the railcars is not only a requirement in many sectors, but also an important practice to help prolong the life of railcars that otherwise would eventually wear down due to elements such as salt and rust. Clean exteriors also help to make the businesses that own the railcars look more professional. COLLECTING WASTE WATER: Service providers will ensure that any liquid runoff stemming from the power washing service is contained according to environmental policies, ensuring all water is properly disposed of. To prevent tainted wastewater from getting into the ecosystem, and also required by law, service providers are trained to ensure that the runoff doesn’t present environmental hazards to the public or to other life forms. KEEPING THE INSIDE CLEAN: Some industries have specific requirements as to the cleaning the inside of railcars, so service providers will be able to provide the right options. For instance, some laws mandate that operators of railcars steam clean the inside of the boxcars before loading and transporting certain items. When it comes to passenger trains, the inside must be disinfected through pressure washing to provide a sterile and safe environment. Professional power washing companies will know exactly what to do, which means that railcar owners will easily be able to comply with regulations without much hassle. SAFEGUARDING KEY COMPONENTS: Certain regulations require that key railcar components, among them the control valves and the brakes, be properly covered prior to any power washing service being performed. Water can, over time, cause premature wear and tear to these components, which is why it is important to use material, such as waterproof tarps, to protect them. Contractors will properly protect sensitive components before going forward with power washing treatments. POST-WASHING APPLICATION: After the power washing service has been performed, contractors can apply a degreasing product to curtail the accumulation of dirt or other contaminants (ask about this service prior). This will ensure that the train stays cleaner for a longer period of time, and that it is easier to clean in the future. Plenty goes into making sure that railcars remain clean. Rail industry companies that want to ensure that the job is done right will outsource the job of power washing to the professionals. Call Sparkleen today for all your power washing needs today!