Electric railcar ABe 4/4 # 47 of the Rhaetian Railway for the Bernina line, which is electrified with 1000 V DC. On the forward pantograph, a spraying device is mounted. In case of special weather conditions or according to demand, protection of the formation of ice on the contact wire is ensured with a mixture from water, glycol and other environmentally friendly additives, sprayed around the contact wire. The volatile substances in the mixture evaporate or mix with the ambient air. A few components solidify thanks to intrinsic heat and temperature shock of the wire and are laid down as thin protective layer around it. The precipitation (at worst in the form of freezing rain), will remain so not stick to the wire thanks to this layer. This means that the contact shoe of the pantograph of the passing train can be used to remove the ice layer much better from the wire, which makes it easier to ensure a constant electrical contact.
