Influence of Nonmetallic Inclusions and Corrosion Products on the Wear Resistance of Railroad Wheels

Abstract

Wear particles are formed at the contact surface of railroad wheels close to nonmetallic inclusions and corrosion products, which are associated with structural changes near the contact surface and reaction of the steel with the atmosphere. Such formation of wear particles is analyzed in the present work. The key factors responsible for the formation of the wear particles are identified, and their mutual influence is studied. That permits prediction of the wear at the wheels’ contact surface in different operating position. The wear of the contact surface is shown to be localized at the recess. The wear resistance of the contact surface may be increased by local laser treatment.