PHILADELPHIA - Axalta Coating Systems has received the European Fire and Smoke certification  (EN 45-545) from the European Railway Agency (ERA) for its entire Alesta range of powder coatings. This new European standard, which will completely replace national standards by 2017, aims to guarantee harmonization of standards and to provide a high level of safety for European rail travel.

The Alesta powder coatings range, which is used extensively internally and externally on rolling stock throughout Europe, has been thoroughly and independently tested over many months to gain EN 45-545 fire and smoke certification.

“It is obviously fantastic news that the ERA has passed our Alesta range for certification of this wide-reaching fire and smoke standard for the rail industry. Our products are usually developed to enhance the beauty of objects in some way, but it is very important to know that they may also contribute to the safety of passengers and staff in the very unlikely event of a fire. Strict safety guidelines, like EN 45-545, are certainly welcomed by Axalta,” says Markus Koenigs, Marketing Communications Manager for Axalta’s powder business in EMEA.

Alesta is also available for rail stock in North America, with a proven track record of being used on rail vehicles parts.