Test Bench for Wheelsets (Assembled Condition)
ECHOGRAPH WHEELSET A

The underfloor unit ECHOGRAPH WHEELSET A is an inspection system for fully automated ultrasonic and eddy current testing of wheel rims in assembled condition. The wheels can be tested both in profiled and non-profiled condition. It is suitable for wheelsets with a diameter range of 640 to 1200 mm with a maximum axial load of 30 tons. The tread testing system is installed four times (two systems from each side for every wheel disc) to allow testing regardless of different types of mounted parts such as brake disks, linkages, and gearboxes.

The system is adjusted in advance using a calibration wheelset with standardised flaws. Afterwards, the wheelset to be inspected is positioned above the test bed with the train. Fine adjustment is done automatically by the ECHOGRAPH WHEELSET A. With ultrasonic and eddy current testing, even the smallest hairline cracks and surface defects can be detected. For every wheel disc, 14 ultrasonic and 4 eddy current probes are used. A track of 360° is allocated to each probe.

Optionally, the ECHOGRAPH WHEELSET A can be expanded with phased array technology, leading to improved imaging and inspection results. The entire test procedure is conducted automatically and takes less than 10 minutes for a flawless wheelset. The results are saved to the corresponding wheelset number with additional information regarding the inspection.