SRT is a high-speed train operated by SR Co., Ltd., which began service on December 9, 2016. The name “SRT” stands for “Super Rapid Train,” reflecting its high-speed capabilities. (Yonhap)
SEOUL, April 15 (Korea Bizwire) — South Korea’s high-speed rail operator SR announced Monday that its next-generation EMU-320 trains, slated for deployment in 2027, will feature the world’s first onboard automatic fire suppression system specifically designed for lithium polymer battery fires.
The system, developed in collaboration with Hyundai Rotem and fire safety firm HTC, is engineered to detect and extinguish fires caused by thermal runaway in lithium batteries before they escalate.
Lithium polymer batteries, which will power auxiliary systems on the EMU-320 trains, are lighter and more efficient than conventional nickel-cadmium batteries but pose significant fire risks due to their volatile chemical composition.
Unlike traditional suppression systems, SR’s solution is built directly into the train. When internal battery temperatures exceed 120 degrees Celsius, embedded sensors trigger the automatic release of a fire-extinguishing agent inside the battery housing, neutralizing the threat at an early stage.
This is especially crucial for high-speed trains, where more than 500 passengers may be onboard and evacuation is difficult in emergencies.
SR emphasized that this represents a first-of-its-kind safety innovation globally for rail vehicles. The system passed rigorous quality certification tests earlier this month at the Disaster Prevention Technology Research Institute, clearing the way for installation in all newly introduced EMU-320 trains.
“With this advancement, we aim to set new safety standards in high-speed rail,” said SR CEO Lee Jong-kook. “We are committed to driving innovation that enhances the safety and reliability of SRT services for all passengers.”
The EMU-320 is part of South Korea’s broader push to modernize its rail fleet with faster, safer, and more energy-efficient technologies by 2027 and beyond.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
