NDT for the Railroad sector

Non-destructive testing within the railroad sector applies to the track, the superstructures, locomotives and rolling stock.

 Track

A key problem that railroads have faced since their earliest days is the prevention of defects within the track. There are many effects that influence rail defects and rail failure, including bending and shear stresses, wheel/rail contact stresses, thermal stresses, residual stresses and dynamic effects.

A contributing factor that can cause crack propagation is the presence of water and other liquids. When fluid fills a small crack and a train passes over, the water becomes trapped in the void and can expand the crack tip. In addition, the trapped fluid could freeze, which can potentially lead to crack expansion, or initiate a corrosion process.

Parts of a rail where defects can be found include the head, web, foot, switchblades (crossovers), welds and bolt holes. While the majority of the flaws are located in the head, the entire rail needs to be inspected.

In any country operating a passenger or freight rail network, the key issue is how to carry out inspection of a large amount of track. For example, in the UK there are > 40,000 miles of track and > 19,000 switch and crossing units. Whilst the principle of NDT inspection is train-based ultrasonic testing, liquid penetrant inspection using visible penetrants is ideal for the examination of identified faults, both prior to and post corrective action being taken. It is also possible to use magnetic particle inspection where the use of portable Yokes lends itself to inspection using visible magnetic particle inks.

 Superstructures

Superstructures such as signalling and electrification gantries will be inspected at the point of manufacture. Such inspections will typically be carried out using visible red penetrants or visible magnetic particle inks and white contrast paints.

 Locomotives and rolling stock

Away from the track side, inspection of locomotives and rolling stock using magnetic particle inspection is another key function. Safety critical components including bogies, wheel and axle sets, tyres, coil springs, laminated leaf springs and stabiliser bars all warrant periodic inspection. Whilst the size of a lot of these components necessitates the need for the use of stationary systems, it is also possible to use portable Yokes for the inspection of, for example, welds.

 

Recommended Products

Please wait while we gather your results.
Liquid Penetrant Testing

Liquid Penetrant Testing

Penetrant inspection products for fluorescent or dye penetrant testing method of non-destructive testing

Read More...

Magnaflux Magnetic Particle Testing

Magnetic Particle Inspection

Mag particle testing products from Magnaflux for fluorescent or non-fluorescent/colored magnetic particle inspection

Read More...

You want the best solution for your application. We can help you find it.


At Magnaflux, we offer products and solutions for a variety of industries. 
Learn more about how we can help you.

View our products > 

Learn about the industries we serve > 

Contact an expert > 

Subscribe to Magnaflux NDT Blogs:

Magnaflux

Faraday Road, South Dorcan Industrial Estate
Swindon, Wiltshire, SN3 5HE, UK
Telephone: +44 (0)1793 524566
Contact Magnaflux Customer Service

Magnaflux, A Division of ITW Limited   VAT number: GB 531 8325 59

Select Your Country North America Mexico Brazil China Europe India New Zealand, Australia, Japan, Southeast Asia
© 2024 Magnaflux - All Rights Reserved.
top