FRENCH NATIONAL RAILWAYS RAIL GRINDING TRAIN

This train operates at a speed of 24 to 28 mph but in order to remove corrugations of a maximum depth of 0.02 in. from 60 to 120 runs have to be made over the section of line from which corrugations are to be removed. The train is normally moved by two locomotives, one at either end. There are two rail grinding vehicles in the train separated from the locomotives by runners and from each other by two locomotive tenders; these two tenders provide water to lubricate the grinding blocks and to cool the surface of the rails. Each vehicle is equipped with 16 grinding shoes. There are two groups of four grinding shoes on each side of the vehicle. Each block measures 15 in. long by 2.36 in. wide, and the effective grinding material on each block when new is 5.9 in. thick. On the average, the blocks have to be replaced after each 120 miles. The abrasive block is made of aluminium oxide grit. The grinding shoes are brought into contact with the rail and a total pressure of 4 to 5 tonnes applied to the 16 shoes. This pressures is gradually increased to 10 tonnes the speed of the train being maintained constantly at 24 to 28 mph. To get the best results from the economic point of view it is desirable for the train to cover, while working, at least 62 miles each day.

• Corporate Authors:

  Temple Press Limited

  161-166 Fleet Street
  Longon EC4,   England 
• Publication Date: 1956-12-7

Media Info

• Features: Photos;
• Pagination: p. 667-668
• Serial:
  • RAILWAY GAZETTE
  • Volume: 85

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Abrasions; Corrugations (Defects); Maintenance of way; Rail (Railroads); Railroad trains; Technology; Vehicle design
• Uncontrolled Terms: Rail corrugation
• Geographic Terms: France
• Old TRIS Terms: Track maintenance equipment
• Subject Areas: Design; Railroads; Vehicles and Equipment;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00039969
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Jul 8 1994 12:00AM