Ice build-up on contact wires is a common and serious challenge in rail traffic, especially during freeze-thaw cycles. Moisture condenses on the wires and freezes at low temperatures, leading to unwanted ice build-up. This process is accelerated by the wind, which carries moisture to the wires and thus promotes the formation of ice.

When water freezes on the contact wire, the insulating properties of ice result in high electrical resistance between the pantograph and the overhead line. In extreme cases, this can lead to voltage flashovers between the two. This can lead to service interruptions and costly repairs.

Traditional methods of combating ice build-up often require costly and time-consuming de-icing trips for the operating company. In most cases, night-time de-icing trips are carried out using a service vehicle. In addition, the use of glycerine as a de-icing agent is widespread. This removes the ice directly but does not prevent the formation of new ice.