Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2026-01-08 Origin: Site
The wheelset is one of the main components of a vehicle bogie. It consists of one axle and two identical wheels. An interference fit is used at the wheel–axle interface, and the wheels are press-fitted onto the axle using an axle press machine. During operation, the axle is subjected to very complex loading conditions. In addition to large vertical forces, it must also withstand rigid impact loads from rail joints.
The main forms of axle damage include axle cracks, impact damage, scuffing, axle bending and wear, indentations, collision damage, welding arc burns, and journal elongation caused by overheated (burnt) axles. Axle wear mainly includes the following types:
◆ Journal wear: For rolling bearing axles, bearing failure may cause loosening of the inner ring, resulting in sliding friction between the inner ring and the axle journal, which leads to journal wear.
◆ The threaded portion at the axle end of rolling bearing axles may lose its fastening function after long-term service due to wear.
◆ Axle body scuffing: Improper assembly of brake rods, levers, or other components may cause contact with the axle, resulting in scuffing. Excessive scuffing can lead to stress concentration at the damaged area and cause axle cracks.
◆ Axle impact damage: During service or transportation, the axle body may be damaged by impacts or collisions.
◆ Welding arc damage: During vehicle maintenance and repair welding, improper grounding of the welding cable may cause current to pass through the axle, resulting in arc damage to the axle body.
◆ Dust guard seat area: Improper installation of the rear cover after assembling dust-proof bearings can easily cause abrasion, dents, and longitudinal scratches.
