Examining train wheel-rail integrity
Regular monitoring of tracks and rolling stock is required for the early detection of any wear and tear and to prevent dangerous situations from arising. Proper planning of maintenance also ensures the best possible use of resources. Furthermore, correct maintenance reduces noise pollution resulting from poor interaction between wheel and track and ensures greater reliability, safety and comfort. The Vims-rt project conducted an international workshop on virtual and intelligent measurement systems for railways to discuss problems associated with wheel-rail contact problems. Speakers covered a range of topics including the problems normally encountered in day-to-day railway activity. Papers were also presented on the topics of trackside monitoring of rolling stock, maintenance of underground networks and the use of lasers to identify track irregularities. Management of the wheel-rail interface with biodegradable lubricants was also identified as being of major importance. A presentation was given on rail wear in the Milan metropolitan area that addressed a range of measurement and monitoring issues. The problem of excessive vibration and noise due to rail corrugation was also tackled. Solutions included the examination of wheel rims using ultrasonic probes and electromagnetic acoustic transducers. A further topic that aroused considerable interest was the in-motion inspection of the rolling surface of wheels of high-speed trains. The meeting successfully organised by Vims-rt consortium has helped improve the monitoring regime of wheels and rails used by Europe's trains, providing passengers with a safer and more comfortable journey.