Engineers from the Far Eastern State Transport University have developed an innovative part for railway wheels that helps reduce vibrations, reduce weight and prevent premature wear of rails. The invention uses selective laser melting technology to create a steel wheel.
Inside the disk, instead of solid metal, a network of cavities in the shape of dodecahedrons is created. Thin partitions between them form an elastic lattice: when the wheel rolls onto a rail joint or track defect, the cells smoothly compress and return to their original position. Thus, the shock load and high-frequency vibrations are dampened before they reach the axle and body.
The laser sinters metal powder layer by layer, forming a complex geometry part. This allows the alloy to be placed only where it actually perceives operational loads. As a result, the wheel is noticeably lighter than the standard one, but retains the necessary strength and fatigue resistance.
The next stage of development is the manufacture of prototypes and their testing on stands and in real conditions. If the calculations are confirmed, the technology can be used in the production of wheels for shunting locomotives, special equipment and passenger cars, where smooth running, reduced weight and careful attitude to infrastructure are especially important.
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