BHB and Mitsubishi Electric showcase digital automation for sustainable rail infrastructure

German rail-vehicle washing system specialist BHB Waschanlagen Vertriebs GmbH has completed an advanced, energy-efficient tram washing system in Zurich, highlighting how digital automation technologies can support sustainable public transport—an increasingly important focus across ASEAN and the Asia-Pacific region.

The project was delivered in collaboration with Mitsubishi Electric and automation software specialist ATINA Ingenieurbüro. By combining digital twins, low-code programming, and reliable industrial automation hardware, the partners significantly reduced engineering effort and shortened commissioning time.

Installed in Zurich’s Oerlikon district, the system uses four independently movable washing units rather than conventional fixed designs. This enables faster cleaning cycles, improved wash quality, and reduced consumption of water and energy—key performance indicators for public transport operators and industrial facilities in rapidly urbanising APAC cities.

For the first time, BHB applied a full digital twin to simulate the complete washing system, with all mechanical and electrical components controlled by a real Mitsubishi Electric PLC. Virtual testing at the engineering stage allowed faster on-site commissioning and minimised operational risk.

Low-code programming further simplified system development. Washing programs are created and adjusted using Excel-based parameterisation, reducing complexity and making future upgrades easier—an important advantage for manufacturers and operators facing skills shortages across ASEAN markets.

The system is powered by Mitsubishi Electric’s MELSEC FX5U PLC and FR-E800 series frequency inverters, delivering energy-efficient motor control and long-term hardware compatibility.

The Zurich project demonstrates how manufacturers and infrastructure operators in ASEAN and APAC can accelerate digital transformation, improve sustainability, and enhance operational efficiency through the adoption of smart automation technologies and strong technology partnerships.