Article: Wheelset Consultancy Support for UK Rail Sector
Wheelsets play a vital role in rolling stock, significantly affecting reliability, safety and operational costs. At DB ESG, we provide specialist wheelset consultancy and independent expertise to address a variety of issues. We have conducted condition assessments of wheelsets, and investigations into in-service wheelset incidents and wheelset overhaul issues. Our expertise also includes evaluating modifications to wheelset design and assembly, ensuring compliance with mandatory standards, and identifying permissible deviations from the EN standards.
Examples of Recent Work Undertaken by DB ESG
1. Axle Corrosion Assessment and Report
Fifteen axles on four Class 769 units exhibited signs of corrosion. DB ESG was asked by the fleet owner, Porterbrook Leasing, to undertake an independent assessment of these axles. The goal was to determine the repairs necessary to mitigate this issue and to ascertain whether these units could continue in passenger service.
2. Wheelset Mechanical Resistance
Siemens Mobility engaged DB ESG to address delays in the wheelset overhaul assembly line at their Bogie Service Centre in Lincoln. Siemens Mobility’s internal procedure mandated a 48-hour “rest” period for their wheelsets before they conducted the back pressure test. DB ESG was tasked with investigating whether this 48-hour “rest” period could be shortened, whilst adhering to relevant standards and assessing associated risks.
3. Axle Inspection
DB ESG received a request to carry out an axle inspection at Siemens Mobility’s Bogie Service Centre in Lincoln. The objective was to assess the axles in accordance with Siemens Mobility’s guidance documentation.
4. Wheelset Failure Investigation.
a) DB ESG provided Class 172 wheelset consultancy support to West Midlands Trains as part of an ongoing investigation into wheelsets failing mandatory back to back measurements.
b) DB ESG was contracted by a freight locomotive leasing company to conduct an urgent investigation into wheelset overhaul failures. Our experts undertook a detailed evaluation into the wheelset design, overhaul procedures and the overhaul records for the failed wheelsets to determine the probable causes of the failures. We provided a detail root cause analysis following completion of this work and witnessed the back pressure testing of the failed wheelsets.
Talk to the Experts
We can offer expert guidance to resolve your wheelset issues, ensuring safety and optimising performance. Email enquiries@dbesg.com to benefit from our expertise and to discuss your requirements.
Go