RaiLathe – One Lathe, Multiple Applications. | RaiLathe™ FAQs

RaiLathe^TM FAQs

If you have questions, have a look through our FAQ section. If you can’t find it here, please get in touch.

About RaiLathe^TM

What wheel defects can it resolve?

RaiLathe^TM can resolve the full range of wheel defects encountered in service including excessive worn profile, wheel flats, cavities, cracks and material hardening.

Can it apply to any wheel type?

Yes, RaiLathe^TM is adaptable to multiple wheel types including size and construction providing full operational coverage of your fleet. Contact us to discuss your specific requirements.

Can it be used for passenger / freight?

Yes, RaiLathe^TM is proven in both passenger and freight operations.

Can you machine a wheel on a bogie?

Yes, a key benefit of RaiLathe^TM is that is can be deployed to the asset and machine the wheelset on the bogie minimising down-time and optimising asset availability.

How long to turn a wheel?

Machining time is dependent on a number of factors including type of defect and amount of material to remove to achieve the desired profile. A typical machining time is around 50 minutes.

What is the minimum clearance height between wheel and lathe?

With the vehicle raised on jacks and the wheelset located on the friction drive the clearance between the wheelset and the track is between 57 to 100 mm dependant on the wheel diameter.

About the Friction Drive

How does it work?

The friction drive uses hydraulic motors and a rolling rail principle to drive the wheelset. The tread of the wheel is located on two profiled rollers that transfer the drive from the hydraulic motors to the axle.

How does it secure to the track?

The friction drive is located on the rail head, levelled with jacking screws and secured with four clamp brackets to the rail. The clamping solution is adaptable to suit track construction.

Do the track need to be ballasted?

No, the friction drive mounting, levelling and clamping solutions are adaptable to suit a range of track constructions. Contact us to discuss your requirements.

Measuring and reporting

Can I set multiple wheel profiles?

Yes, RaiLathe^TM can store and machine multiple wheel profiles on the controller providing full coverage of your operational fleet. The profile to be machined is selected by the operator prior to machining using the machine control pendant.

Does the lathe include measuring?

A range of measuring solutions are available to suit your application including contact profile measurement and non-contact laser profile measurement.