New Rail Welding Technology in the U.S.: Development and Future Implementation

The U.S. Department of Transportation and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) awarded a $4.6 million grant to develop rail welding equipment, enhancing railway infrastructure safety and efficiency across the country. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

An additional 22% of the project’s total cost will be funded by the University of Notre Dame, located in Indiana, and technology company MTI, both of which are responsible for developing this innovative equipment. The project includes the creation and testing of a rail welding machine, designed for rails weighing 136 pounds per yard, approximately equal to 67 kilograms per meter.

Prospects of the New Rail Welding Technology

The Low Force method is an improved type of friction welding, supplemented by external heating, which reduces stress within the metal and minimizes thermal impact. This approach extends the lifespan of the weld, making it as durable as the rail itself.

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The primary advantage of this rail welding technology lies in doubling the lifespan of welded joints compared to traditional methods, such as electric arc and thermite welding. This feature enhances the railway track’s reliability, especially important for intensively used mainline routes.

Impact of the New Rail Welding Technology on Infrastructure

Implementing Low Force rail welding technology will reduce maintenance costs and repair frequency, improving both safety and convenience for travel on railway tracks across the country.

The project to develop innovative rail welding equipment marks a significant step in modernizing U.S. railway infrastructure and opens up opportunities for expanding this technology to other countries.

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