METALLURGICAL ANALYSIS OF FAILED RIMS ON FIVE BURLINGTON NORTHERN UNIT TRAIN TRUCK BOLSTERS

Results of fracture analysis, dimensional study, chemical analysis, Brinell hardness tests, and examination of the microstructures of five failed unit train truck bolster castings are reported. It was concluded that the failures were all triggered at the rim-bowl base fillet by various stress risers created by impacts of the horizontal liner plates against the rims. The failures propagated suddenly or in fatigue under impact of the rims with the body center plates. It was also found that the vertical liner rings had broken away from the rims of two bolsters before they were removed from service.

• Supplemental Notes:
  • Direct requests to Directors Office, AAR Research Center.
• Corporate Authors:

  Association of American Railroads

  59 East Van Buren Street
  Chicago, IL  United States  60605
• Authors:
  • Fleming, L
• Publication Date: 1973-9

Media Info

• Pagination: 56 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Bolsters; Freight cars; Structural plates
• Old TRIS Terms: Body center plates; Center plates; Freight car component performance; Horizontal liner plates; Truck and bolster systems; Vertical liner rings
• Subject Areas: Railroads; Vehicles and Equipment;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00080374
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: Association of American Railroads
• Report/Paper Numbers: R-152
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Feb 11 1976 12:00AM