RIFTEK has launched a new measurement system for railways, the 3DWheel system.

The system is intended for contact less measurement of wheel sets geometry when the train is moving.

The system uses a combination of ten 2D laser scanners, RF625 Series mounted wayside in the track area (five pieces for every track side) and calibrated into one common coordinate system.

As each wheel passes synchronised 2D laser scanners, wheel profiles are taken at many sections of a wheel.

All measurement readings for all the train wheels are sent through ethernet to control computer for profiles reconstruction and dimensions calculations. Finally all data are collected in the host depot computer in wheel sets wear database.

The accuracy range of the system for each measurement parameter is listed below:

  • Wheel profiles: +-0.1mm
  • Flange height: +- 0,1mm
  • Flange width: +-0,1mm
  • Flange angle: +-0,2mm
  • Rim thickness: +- 0,1mm
  • Tread width: +-0.1mm
  • Back to back distance: +-0.05mm
  • Diameter: +-0,2 mm

System tests were successful and we are working on the final version of the system to be installed in Minsk electrodepot for permanent use.

A video demonstration of the system is available on our the company’s website.