Railways depend on cables that keep working in snow, vibration, fire and electromagnetic noise. Switch (point) heating keeps turnouts free of ice and snow so trains are not delayed; signalling cables carry safety-critical circuits along the track; and power cables feed trackside equipment, stations and tunnels. This guide explains each family, the requirements that apply and how to specify them.
Railway point heating cables
A set of points has moving switch blades that must close tightly against the stock rail. Snow and ice packed between them stop the blades moving, which blocks the route and causes delays. Point heating systems mount heating elements on the rail foot and slide chairs, so the critical area stays above freezing.
- Heating elements are clipped to the stock rails and, on many layouts, to the slide plates, back drive and locking areas.
- Control uses rail temperature sensors and snow or ice detectors, often linked to a weather station, so heating only runs when needed – saving a large share of energy compared with manual switching.
- Supply cables connect the trackside control cabinet to each heater, and must resist vibration, ballast abrasion, UV, oil and water.
- Remote monitoring alerts maintenance teams to failed elements before the next snowfall.
See our point heating cable.
Railway signalling cables
Signalling cables connect interlockings to signals, track circuits, axle counters and point machines. They are usually multi-core, often with screens and armouring to protect against induced voltages from the traction supply and against rodents and mechanical damage. See our railway signalling cable.
Railway power cables
Power cables feed trackside cabinets, point heating, lighting, stations, depots and tunnel systems. For rolling stock and flexible connections, rubber-sheathed types such as H07ZZ-F 450/750 V are used, while (N)SGAFÖU single-core cables are a long-established choice for vehicle wiring. See railway power cable.
Fire performance and halogen-free cables
In tunnels, underground stations and inside trains, smoke and toxic gases are a bigger danger to passengers than the flames themselves. Railway projects therefore usually require:
- Halogen-free (LSZH / LS0H) materials that produce little smoke and no corrosive halogen acid gas – see our halogen-free railway power cable.
- Flame-retardant construction that limits fire spread along cable runs.
- Fire-resistant circuit-integrity cables for emergency lighting, ventilation and evacuation systems that must keep working during a fire.
- CPR (EU Construction Products Regulation) classification for cables permanently installed in buildings and stations.
Specification checklist
- Application: point heating supply, signalling, power or rolling stock.
- Voltage rating, number of cores and cross-section.
- Screening and armouring needs near electrified lines.
- Fire requirements: halogen-free, flame-retardant, fire-resistant, CPR class.
- Environment: outdoor UV, oil, water, temperature range, burial or ducts.
- Approvals required by the infrastructure manager.
- Drum lengths and delivery schedule.
Browse all railway cables.
Frequently asked questions
What is railway point heating?
Point heating keeps railway switches (points) free from snow and ice by heating the rails and slide chairs with electric elements. It prevents the switch blades from jamming, which would otherwise block routes and delay trains.
How is point heating controlled?
Modern systems use rail temperature sensors and snow or ice detectors, often with a weather station, so heaters switch on only when there is a risk of freezing. Remote monitoring reports faulty elements.
Why are halogen-free cables used on railways?
In tunnels, stations and trains, smoke and toxic or corrosive gases from burning cables endanger passengers and damage equipment. Halogen-free (LSZH) cables produce little smoke and no halogen acid gases.
What is the difference between flame-retardant and fire-resistant cable?
Flame-retardant cable limits the spread of fire along the cable. Fire-resistant cable keeps its circuit working for a set time during a fire, for emergency systems such as lighting and ventilation.
Do you supply railway cables across Europe?
Yes. Wesourcia supplies point heating, signalling and power cables to railway contractors and operators across Europe, with datasheets and test certificates.
Need railway cables for a project?
Send the cable type, cross-sections and lengths. We quote with datasheets, approvals and delivery dates across Europe.