EN 13979 – Part 1: Forged and rolled wheels standard

EN 13979 – Part 1: Forged and Rolled Wheels Standard
EN 13979 – Part 1 is a widely recognized standard in the railway industry that specifically addresses forged and rolled wheels used in rail systems. This standard provides detailed specifications and requirements for the manufacturing, testing, and performance of these wheels. Engineers and technical personnel involved in the design, production, and maintenance of railway systems will find this standard invaluable.
1. Purpose and Scope:
EN 13979 – Part 1 lays out comprehensive guidelines to ensure the quality, safety, and reliability of forged and rolled wheels used in railways. It covers various aspects such as material requirements, dimensional tolerances, mechanical properties, surface conditions, and inspection procedures.
2. Material Requirements:
The standard specifies the type of materials suitable for the manufacturing of forged and rolled wheels. These materials must possess specific chemical composition and mechanical properties to guarantee optimal performance and durability under demanding railway operating conditions.
3. Dimensional Tolerances:
EN 13979 – Part 1 defines precise dimensional tolerances for various wheel parameters including diameter, width, flange thickness, tread profile, and concentricity. These tolerances are crucial to ensure compatibility and smooth operation between the wheels and the rail system.
4. Mechanical Properties:
The standard outlines the mechanical requirements that forged and rolled wheels must meet. These include minimum tensile strength, elongation, hardness, impact resistance, and fatigue strength. By complying with these specifications, manufacturers can produce wheels capable of withstanding the dynamic loading and stress encountered during train operations.
5. Surface Conditions:
EN 13979 – Part 1 sets forth guidelines for the surface condition of forged and rolled wheels. It covers aspects such as wheel rim profile, flange shape, surface roughness, and the absence of any defects or imperfections that could compromise safety or performance.
6. Inspection Procedures:
The standard details the inspection methods and acceptance criteria for forged and rolled wheels. It covers techniques such as visual inspection, ultrasonic testing, magnetic particle inspection, and hardness testing. Implementing these procedures helps identify potential flaws or abnormalities that may affect the wheel’s integrity.

In summary, EN 13979 – Part 1: Forged and Rolled Wheels Standard is an essential reference document for professionals involved in railway engineering. It ensures that forged and rolled wheels meet stringent quality and performance requirements. By adhering to this standard, manufacturers can produce wheels that enhance the safety, efficiency, and reliability of rail systems.
For more detailed information on EN 13979 – Part 1, including specific technical specifications and guidelines, you can refer to the official PDF document available for download on reputable industry websites.