Podcomp is Developing the Train Compartments of the Future

Podcomp is Developing the Train Compartments of the Future

Podcomp has long been a leading player in the construction industry, focusing on bathrooms and flooring made from fiber composites. Now, the company is stepping into the transportation sector, having developed and delivered its first train compartments, designed to give passengers in Finland a hotel-like experience.

– This has been an exciting and educational project. The strict fire safety requirements meant we had to work with a new material system, and the aesthetics also posed a challenge. Normally, we develop bathroom modules that are covered with tiles, but in this case, we needed to create a visible and refined design, says Peter Lundmark, CEO of Podcomp.

The assignment came through the Finnish company Pikkio Works OY, which specializes in ship cabins. After a study visit to Podcomp, they were impressed by the company’s expertise and chose them as a partner for their first venture into train interiors.

– This was a new industry for Pikkio Works as well, which made it especially important to work with a partner that had long-standing experience with fiber composites and could lead the development of the product.

The project has involved several partners within SWE-CIC. RISE conducted tests on the fastenings, and Composite Service manufactured hatches, smaller components, and processed the panels.

– It is in large and complex projects that the value of SWE-CIC becomes clear. Through the network, we have fast access to expertise, the right equipment, and well-established collaborations, allowing us to work efficiently and deliver high-quality solutions.

Using fiber composites in train interiors offers several advantages. The material allows for design flexibility, meets strict weight requirements, and contributes to energy efficiency both during assembly and in operation.

So far, Podcomp has delivered 144 train compartments, with an option for an additional 480 units. In addition, they have developed a prototype for a train bathroom module.

– Our ambition is for this product to become a springboard that enables us to deliver more innovative solutions in the transportation sector.