3/4″ GURU PC^® Passenger Rail Car Freeze Protection

Operation of Passenger Rail Car Freeze Protection Valves

The ¾” thermostatic GURU PC®  valve is installed at the lowest point within the potable water-bearing system of a passenger rail car. Its primary function is to prevent water from freezing when the car’s heating system is turned off.

This self-operating freeze protection valve continuously monitors ambient temperatures. It will automatically drain the water tanks of the rail car if the external temperature drops to the valve’s set-point of 35°F (1.7°C). This preemptive action protects the system from freezing and prevents potentially costly damage.

When power and heat are restored to the rail car, the valve warms up and closes, enabling the water tanks to be refilled before the car returns to service. As the valve operates mechanically, it requires no electrical or air connections.

To expedite the refilling process after a valve activation, we recommend using our electric heater assembly. The heater attaches to the valve’s thermal actuator and quickly warms it once power is restored, allowing the valve to close promptly and the system to be refilled efficiently.

To avoid unnecessary activations and nuisance dumping, we suggest replacing the cartridge assembly every two years, particularly if tests reveal sluggish or marginal closing performance. We offer a replacement cartridge kit to facilitate easy replacement without removing the Tee Body.

The GURU PC® valve is NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 & 372 Certified for use in potable water systems and has been rigorously tested to withstand shock and vibration, ensuring durability in harsh conditions. Compact, reliable, and in-line serviceable for ease of maintenance, the GURU PC^® valve is the ideal solution to protect the potable water systems in passenger rail cars, including toilet modules and galleys, from freeze damage.