There is no technical justification for leaving shrink fitted wheels 48 hours before they are mechanically resistance tested. This test checks whether the wheel is securely fitted to the axle. If it is carried out too soon the wheel moves and then has to be removed and re-fitted. Since 1990 UK industry has assembled over 100,000 wheelsets using this method. Mechanical resistance requirements have been met when conducting the tests after the wheel and axle temperatures have equalised over assembly. This applies to both new build wheelsets and those overhauled at maintenance. Similar experiences have been reported from European couterparts.
Registration number (WIID)
23871
Scope
There is no technical justification for leaving shrink fitted wheels 48 hours before they are mechanically resistance tested. This test checks whether the wheel is securely fitted to the axle. If it is carried out too soon the wheel moves and then has to be removed and re-fitted. Since 1990 UK industry has assembled over 100,000 wheelsets using this method. Mechanical resistance requirements have been met when conducting the tests after the wheel and axle temperatures have equalised over assembly. This applies to both new build wheelsets and those overhauled at maintenance. Similar experiences have been reported from European couterparts.
