DSPlus has partnered with major research groups in Europe to develop Trainwheels – A novel technology for detecting surface cracks in train wheels. By using state of the art thermographic analysis system, Trainwheels provides automated, non-destructive, faster and lower-cost wheels cracks detection.
The European rail network is getting more and more predominant in the transportation sector: it hosts high speed-trains, higher loads of more passengers or goods, with increased frequency. This determines a higher mechanical load for the moving parts of the carrier involved: therefore, increasing inspection and maintenance are required in order to guarantee safety and well-being of trains. One of the biggest concerns about transportation safety is broken wheels due to cracks. Frequent accidents and regular breakdowns have been registered in the latest years due to this failure.
Existing methods of identifying cracks or problems on the surface or near the surface of the wheel include Magnetic Particle Inspection, Dye Penetrant Inspection, and Eddy current testing. These methods are slow and non-automated, some require dismantling of the wheels, and some generate high amount of hazardous waste. These and other drawbacks led to the development of a better solution. Trainwheels is more efficient, cleaner, automated and faster.
Trainswheels is based on thermograhic inspection using a thermal camera and automatic analysis system. It meets all European Safety Standards and provides train safety at a much lower cost.
For further reading visit the Trainwheels website.