A pantograph contact strip is a sliding material attached to the pantograph of a train or other vehicle. The contact strip makes contact with the pantograph wires and transfers electricity between them. There are several types of contact strips, including pure copper, alloy, sintered alloy, pure carbon, and carbon-based contact strips. In addition to electrical conductivity, wear resistance, arc resistance, and mechanical strength, the contact strips must be able to withstand harsh outdoor weather conditions.
The copper-impregnated carbon abrasive contact strips developed by Toyo Tanso have improved lubricity compared to conventional contact strips, which reduces wear of the trolley wires and contributes to lower maintenance costs, and are widely used by JR, private railway companies, and other railway companies. We are working to develop materials that meet various domestic and international standards for switch plates and a wide range of other requirements.