Hollow Axle Inspection System for Korea
10 November 2003 12:45
Ultrasonic Sciences Ltd (USL) has received an order for an automated ultrasonic testing system for use on the hollow axles of Korean High Speed Trains.
This will be used for routine inspection of the axles during scheduled maintenance, to detect the presence of any small cracks which may be forming in service. The test is designed to detect defects well before they can grow to a point where they could compromise safety.
The system, in common with similar units currently in use in UK and Europe, inspects axles in-situ on the train and is fully automatic. It produces a graphical display with any defects highlighted and individually identified.
The axles are inspected from the bore using a rotating probe head which directs a high frequency sound beam to the external axle surface. Areas of the axle which are otherwise inaccessible - such as wheelseats and gearseats - can be tested as easily as visible areas.
The USL system is compact and self contained with excellent mobility - it is easily moved from one axle to another in the maintenance depot. Attachment to the axle and initiation of the test takes as little as 2 - 3 minutes. The inspection itself takes from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the inspection requirements.
This order follows the recent successful implementation and validation of this equipment in UK on Class 220, 221 and 390 (Pendolino)trains manufactured by Bombardier Transportation and Alstom.
For more information on this company:
Ultrasonic Sciences - Ultrasonic Wheel and Axle Testing
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