LEDA - Innovative process chain for repairing railway wheels

Railway wheels are subject to high loads and require regular maintenance. However, conventional repair methods are inefficient and resource-intensive. The Fraunhofer IPT is revolutionizing the repair process with the "LEDA - Extending the Service Life of Railway Wheels" reserach project. Using modern additive manufacturing technologies, such as laser metal deposition (LMD-W), has resulted in a process that is more precise, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. 

This process includes digitally recording defects, automatically selecting the best repair strategy, adding material, and performing comprehensive quality control. Another key objective of the project is identifying the optimal wire material for repairs to maximize the wheels' durability and performance. 

Here you can find a website about the project.

Contact:

Fraunhofer-Institut für Produktionstechnologie IPT

Tizia Weidemann M.Sc.

Steinbachstr. 17, 52074 Aachen

Telefon +49 241 8904-334

Mail: tizia.weidemann@ipt.fraunhofer.de