Metallurgical Analysis of Brake Blocks

Abstract

This study focuses on the characterization of train brake blocks. The brake blocks are an essential organ of train speed control system to ensure comfort and safety to passengers and crew. However, poor quality soles can cause a premature wear of the wheels whose consequences are on the one hand, a damaged brake function, and also high repair costs. Samples were carried out on 3 different batches of brake blocks. Their metallurgical characterization consisted of a study of the hardness and microstructural analysis (microstructures and chemical analyzes) of the different samples. The results show that the hardness of some soles is greater than that of the wheel, mainly associated with a cementite microstructure. This can lead to a premature wear of the wheels at the expense of brake blocks.

Simulation of the casting and solidification process of the brake shoes intended for rolling stock

“…Brake shoes are component parts of the braking system of vehicles and towed rolling stock. In the case of passenger cars and limited-gauge locomotives, braking systems with shoes cast from cast iron or composite material are used [1], [2]. The brake shoes used for towed rolling stock are manufactured in accordance with specific procedures and current legislation [2], [3]; these pieces are cast from phosphorous cast iron (type P10), where phosphorus has values in the range of 0.8-1.55% [4].…”

Characterization of train brake-blocks composite reinforced with aluminum-dross

“…The results revealed a minimal specific wear rate and coefficient of friction with higher mechanical properties with the use of Epoxy compared to other resins. A research on the characterization of train brake blocks was carried out [11]. Their metallurgical characterization consisted of a study of the hardness and microstructural analysis of the different samples prepared using cast iron.…”