Application of non-destructive techniques to the measurement of residual stresses in rail way wheels

摘要

Non-destructive techniques for the measurement of residual stresses provide a potential means of qualifying overheated railway wheels, thereby reducing the risk of wheel failures. An ultrasonic method, based on the acousto-elastic effect, is now accepted by the European railway industry for qualification of wheels at manufacture. The measurements reflect the residual stress distribution across the cross-section of the wheel rim. The application of this technique to wrought wheels used in the Australasian railway industry demonstrates that the technique can be used to differentiate new, worn and overheated conditions, thereby enhancing wheel safety.