Swedish steel prize nominee 2012
Lightweight train seats
2012 | Borcad CZ s.r.o. | Czech Republic 6 min read
Borcad, which enjoys a strong position on the market for light train seats, has developed the next generation of train seats through a smart design made of high strength steels. The slim and yet robust seats are 25% lighter than their predecessors. At the same time, they more than satisfy established strength and collision safety requirements. Thanks to the high strength of the steel, protection is also provided against damage due to vandalism.
Based in Ostrava, in the easternpart of the Czech Republic, Borcad manufactures seats for railway operators and OEM companies who assemble trains. It also produces medical equipment such as its AVE delivery bed.
Borcad was nominated for the Swedish Steel Prize for its Regio and Regio+ rail seats, which are four kilograms lighter than a train seat made of traditional steel. This can reduce the weight of a new three-car, 241-seater electrical multiple unit (EMU) train by one ton. This was achieved by combining high tech materials with the company's own in-house R&D, resulting in a competitive and innovative product and fulfilling the company's slogan: "Comfort for life."
Founded just over 20 years ago, Borcad prides itself on its skilled team which develops and manufactures innovative products for the most demanding of customers. Petr Míl is proud to be nominated for the Swedish Steel Prize. “This really motivates us in our research and development efforts and confirms that we are providing the right, market-orientated solutions. We’re looking forward to the trip to Stockholm,” he says.
The Jury's view:
Borcad’s new generation of lightweight train seats made of high-strength steel are not only 25% lighter in weight than their predecessors but also exceed strength and collision safety regulations. For rail operators, these more durable seats mean better protection against vandalism and a lighter vehicle which in turn reduces operational fuel costs.