Capabilities
We offer a wide range of services from multiple UK based service centres
What is GemECO?
GemEco is Gemini Rail Services’ hub for the future development of new / hybrid technologies on existing rolling stock. GemEco is looking to put Gemini on the map as the leading company for existing rail vehicle hybrid conversions.
What are hybrid conversions?
- Electric to Electric-Diesel powered (to run off wires / 3rd rail)
- Diesel to Electric-Diesel powered (to run on wires / 3rd rail)
- Electric to Electric-Battery powered (to run off wires / 3rd rail)
- Diesel to Battery-Diesel powered (to run on wires / 3rd rail)
- Hydrogen powered
- Advanced Fuel Cell Technology
- Or a combination of any of the above!
Tackling the Problems with Diesel
- Diesel is a fossil fuel - with all the problems that brings.
- The Government have announced that diesel powered rail vehicles will be phased out by 2040.
- Up to the year 2040 Vehicle Owners face the challenge of overhauling older high polluting diesel engines or replacing them with newer lower emissions engines.
- The Non-Road Mobile Machinery (NRMM) Directive requires that diesel engines procured from January 2021 for rail vehicles will need to be compliant with the Stage V emissions requirements (Cars / trucks etc are currently Stage VI).
The Solution – New Generation Generator Sets:
- Synthetic Diesel - low carbon synthetic liquid fuels
- Gemini have been in discussions with a number of manufacturers of engines and will soon be able to offer a Stage V engine to the market.
"We are determined that GemEco will be at the forefront of new technology - creating radical new solutions to the problems society and the rail industry face in the future"
Craig Scott, CEO - Gemini Rail Services
Battery power – the 'Go-anywhere' train?
There is no 'one solution fits all' model – battery size / rating is dependent on routes / distances / vehicle characteristics etc.
We are exploring a number of battery technologies that can be considered:
- Lead Acid
- Lithium-Ion
- Lithium Titanium Oxide
- NMC/LFP and LTO Hybrid LiOn
We can also offer on-route battery charging capability.
Moving into the future - Hydrogen Fuel Cells
A Hydrogen train uses an electrical traction drive which draws on energy generated by a hydrogen fuel cell. Electrical energy is produced by exposing hydrogen to oxygen - with the Hydrogen being stored in a high-pressure fuel tank onboard
Energy that is not immediately used is then stored in lithium-ion batteries, meaning there is no need for overhead catenary. This system is CO2-free at the point of use, only emitting steam and condensed water, and has a low-level of noise.
"The future for the rail industry is full of possibilities. Whatever it is, you can be sure that through GemEco, Gemini Rail Group will be at the very forefront of innovation."
Ed Williams - Head of Engineering Technology - Gemini Rail Group
Contact our Commercial Team for further information
The Market
The Rail Market is constantly evolving - and Gemini Rail Group are growing and changing to meet its needs
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