February 2025 Volume 7

EQUIPMENT & TECHNOLOGY

Key Considerations for Forging Railway Wheels Material utilization, workforce expertise, and supplier support are important factors U.S. forgers must consider when preparing to enter the high-speed rail market. Material utilization is critical, as excessive material use can lead to inefficiencies and increased costs. High-quality equipment can also help mitigate many common defects in the forging process, such as under-fill, dimensional inac curacies, and tool wear. Forgers must invest in presses with higher capacities and alignments that ensure quality preforms and avoid unnecessary material waste. Experienced suppliers and skilled manpower are crucial for forgers entering this market. A trusted supplier can provide the necessary technology and expertise that ensures a smooth and successful transition. This is key for new players, as turnkey projects allow for fast entry into the market and minimize technological risks. Schuler’s One-Stop Forge Shop Solution Schuler’s comprehensive product portfolio of forging presses range from 3,200 kN to 360,000 kN and enable the best economic solu tions for quality parts. Schuler's turnkey solutions for the forging and rolling of railway wheels, including hydraulic systems with press forces up to 100,000kN, have already been implemented in six systems worldwide. Schuler’s system solutions are applicable for a wide range of parts, including railway wheels, axels, crankshafts, large and small connecting rods, disk brakes, chassis components, connection couplings, and sleeper screws. The company also offers hammers and counterblow hammers ranging from 12 kJ to 1,400 kJ. Schul er’s capabilities extend further to process and operation develop ment, dies, and automation systems—securing forging businesses with a one-stop, one-source supplier. Conclusion Forgers in the U.S. are at a pivotal point as the industry begins to invest in high-speed rail projects. Preparing for the future and investing in advanced forging technology and expertise will posi tion forgers as leaders in their local market and allow them to focus on what really matters: the customer .

Professional shot blasting for the forging industry

Rösler wire mesh belt blast machine - complete and continuous blasting treatment of fl at, voluminous and very complex components

before: raw part with adhesion of sand

........................ ................

after: cleaned and deburred surface

........................

Mass Finishing | Shot Blasting | AM Solutions

Visit FIA’s Technical Library to view a recently funded FIERF project “Market Research to Identify a Window of Opportunity for the Current Needs for Railroad Wheels” completed by the University of Houston.

Rösler Metal Finishing, USA 1551 Denso Road, Battle Creek, MI 49037 Tel. (269) 441-3000 | Fax (269) 441-3001| rosler-us@rosler.com | www.rosler.com

FIA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2025 25