CRH is a self-regulating semi-conductive heating cable for conductor (third) rails and railway points. It keeps snow and ice off the rail and maintains the operation of the rail network in cold weather. It works on voltages up to 1000 V AC or DC, delivers up to 130 W/m and withstands up to 250 °C. It is fixed to the rail with a protective GRP capping and purpose-made clips, resists continuous vibration, icy water, oils and de-icing fluids, and installs quickly with minimum disruption to rail traffic.
When accurately and optimally designed, a self-regulating semi-conductive system adjusts itself, so in practice the operator needs no special maintenance or control over the entire operating life of at least 25 years. It is also highly energy-efficient: by drawing exactly the power needed at any moment, it uses far less energy than constant-wattage or steam tracing systems.
