How we do railcar wheel replacement and repair

Railcar wheel replacement and repair is one of the most important procedures ensuring the safe and efficient operation of a railway car. The process of wheelset repair consists of several stages, carried out in specialized repair depots and workshops. Our expert, Miroslav Orlovsky, has highlighted the key stages of this process. Here is a general guide to wheelset repair.

Guide to Freight Railcar Wheel Replacement and Repair

1. Dismantling the Wheelsets: The wheelsets are removed from the cars and transported to the repair depot.
2. Cleaning: The wheelsets undergo thorough cleaning to remove dirt, rust, and other deposits. This is necessary for further inspection and repair.
3. Inspection and Diagnostics: A detailed visual and instrumental inspection of the wheelsets is carried out to identify defects and wear. Special attention is paid to the wheel rim, hubs, discs, and axle.
4. Disassembly: The wheelsets are disassembled into their components: wheel discs, axles, axleboxes, and bearings.
5. Repair or Replacement of Components: Depending on the condition of the components, they are either repaired or replaced. Key operations at this stage include:
   1. Turning the Wheels: Restoring the wheel rim profile.
   2. Correcting Axle Defects: Removing cracks and replacing damaged axles.
   3. Repairing Axleboxes and Bearings: Replacing worn parts and restoring geometry.
6. Reassembly of Wheelsets: After repair or replacement of individual components, the wheelsets are reassembled.
7. Balancing: The wheelsets undergo a balancing procedure to ensure even mass distribution and prevent vibrations during movement.
8. Testing: The reassembled wheelsets are tested on specialized stands to check their mechanical properties, wear resistance, and compliance with technical requirements.
9. Painting and Protection: The wheelsets are coated with protective compounds to prevent corrosion and extend their service life.
10. Reinstallation on the Car: The repaired wheelsets are reinstalled on the car and undergo a final inspection.

Freight railcar wheel replacement and repair is a key element of comprehensive maintenance, which we discussed in a previous article. There, you can learn why wheelsets are prone to rapid wear and how we predict the need and timing of repairs. Properly performed repairs and regular maintenance significantly extend the lifespan of rolling stock and directly impact the safety of freight transport.

What Is the Difference Between Routine Railcar Wheel Repair and Overhaul?

Depending on the degree of wear and damage, different types of repairs are carried out: routine or overhaul.

In the case of routine repair, specialists inspect and address minor defects, replace lubricants, and check the thickness of the flange and the outer surfaces of the wheelsets. If parts are found to be worn beyond established norms or if the fit on the axle is loose, the parts are replaced.

Overhaul involves more extensive work. In this case, a complete inspection of all components is conducted, including axles, wheelsets, and bearings. Special attention is given to checking and measuring wheel diameters to ensure they meet the required standards. New materials and parts are used during the repair, and these must be certified according to the regulations.

Wheelset repair work is carried out in specialized shops at the railcar repair facility. These shops are equipped with modern equipment that ensures high-quality repairs. During an overhaul, it is sometimes necessary to completely replace the wheelsets in cases of severe wear or accidents.

Inspection and certification of wheelsets include checking the right and left sides of the wheels, as well as measuring the thickness of the flange and outer surfaces. All work is performed using specialized equipment and materials that meet the latest standards.

Repair companies that handle wheelset repairs ensure high-quality work, which is confirmed by certifications and compliance marks. Over time, with prolonged operation of rolling stock, weakening or wear of parts is inevitable, and timely repairs help to prevent accidents and extend the lifespan of rolling stock.

For more information on freight car wheelset repair, you can contact our specialists using the contact details below. We guarantee high-quality repairs and adherence to all standards and requirements.

Entrust Your Repairs to Qualified Rental Wagons Specialists, Led by an Experienced Expert. No matter where your rolling stock is located, you can always turn to us for repair, maintenance, or consultation. We provide these services in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Mongolia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Armenia, and other CIS, Asian, and Baltic countries. Repair of transit vehicles passing through Russia and Belarus is also possible. Contact us at support@rentalwagons.com or call +370 65202371.