Title Small-scale testing of rail laser cladding longevity, parameter tolerance and in-situ repairs in preparation for field implementation
Author Yildirimli, K
Tomlinson, K
Fletcher, D
Lewis, R
Conference 12th International Conference on Contact Mechanics and Wear of Rail/Wheel Systems, 4-7 September 2022, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Publication Date 2022
Location ARRB library
Abstract The process of laser clad coating for extending the life of rail is at a stage of development in the UK where field tests can be implemented. To ensure such testing is of optimal value and safety, a series of small scale tests were performed; i) Longevity of laser clad coatings in service, ii) Tolerance of cladding parameters and iii) Laser clad coating as an in-situ repair. From this work it was found that when cladding parameters are optimised laser clad coatings are shown to have a lifespan of over 400,000 cycles (compared to 15,000 to 30,000 for unclad R260 rail). Poor selection of cladding parameters can lead to flaws in the clad layer, but these were not propagated into substrate rail steel in these tests. Successful laser clad repairs are possible, but are dependent on selecting a clad material with homogeneous plastic strain accumulation rate.
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CM 2022_Yildirimli
Subjects Railway track
Laser
Maintenance method
Test
Life cycle assessment
Maintenance