CAF Rail Industrial Building Fit Out

Project Overview

Barlows MEP was appointed to deliver a comprehensive mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) installation for the fit out of a state-of-the-art industrial building for CAF Rail. The facility was designed to house and repair train wheel sets and engine spares, supporting CAF’s operations in rolling stock maintenance and component overhaul. Located in the North West, this project transformed a purpose-built new structure into a fully operational maintenance hub, ensuring high-efficiency workflows, safety compliance, and energy optimization for heavy-duty rail repair activities.

The project involved close collaboration with the main contractor and CAF Rail to integrate advanced systems tailored to the demands of industrial rail maintenance. Completed on schedule and within budget, the fit out enhanced CAF’s capacity to service train components, contributing to sustainable rail transport in the UK.

Client

CAF Rail (Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles), a global leader in railway vehicle manufacturing and maintenance solutions.

Scope of Work

Barlows MEP provided a full turnkey MEP design and installation service, encompassing:

• Electrical Systems: LV power distribution for heavy machinery, including overhead cranes, wheel lathes, and diagnostic equipment. Installation of LED lighting systems with motion sensors for energy efficiency, emergency lighting, and fire alarm integration. Data cabling and networking for real-time monitoring and control systems.
• Mechanical Systems: HVAC and ventilation solutions optimized for workshop environments, industrial gas heating, aswell as dust extraction and fume removal to handle welding, grinding, and painting processes. Air conditioning for control rooms and storage areas to maintain optimal conditions for sensitive engine spares.
• Plumbing and Drainage: Industrial-grade plumbing for washdown areas, compressed air lines for tools, and drainage systems capable of handling oils, lubricants, and wastewater from repair activities. Integration of sustainable water recycling features to minimize environmental impact.

Challenges

• Specialized Requirements: The facility needed robust systems to support high-load equipment for wheel set repairs and engine overhauls, while ensuring compliance with rail industry safety regulations (e.g., BS EN 50128 for electrical safety).
• Tight Timeline: Coordinating with ongoing construction to avoid delays in CAF’s operational rollout.
• Environmental Considerations: Balancing industrial demands with energy efficiency in a large-scale building.

Client Testimonial

“Barlows MEP delivered an exceptional fit out that perfectly meets our needs for a modern rail maintenance facility. Their expertise in industrial MEP ensured a smooth integration of systems, allowing us to focus on what we do best – keeping trains running efficiently.” – Project Manager, CAF Rail

This project exemplifies Barlows MEP’s capability in delivering complex industrial fit outs, reinforcing our position as a trusted partner for high-profile clients in the transport sector. For more information on our services, contact us today.