MODERN DIAGNOSTICS OF RAILWAY ROLLING STOCK

Abstract

Rail vehicle axle-bearing failure is a serious issue often resulting in service delays and potentially fire and derailment, with obvious risks to life. The degradation of rail axle bearings occurs with an increase in noise and vibration, followed by an increase in temperature. Real-time condition monitoring reduces inefficient preventive and reactive maintenance actions, decreases waste from replacing parts that still have useful life, and improves availability and safety by real-time rolling stock diagnosis. Under several working conditions, wear and tear of bearing elements occurs and causes the initiation of various bearing faults like a ball, inner and outer rings. This article reviews recent onboard condition monitoring sensors, systems, methods and techniques, aiming to define the present state of the art and its potential application for locomotives, freight wagons, passenger cars and EMU/DMUs. “Pilot project” in Plant Obrenovac is presented.