Exemplary anti-corrosion record for train braking systems

Citation

(2002), "Exemplary anti-corrosion record for train braking systems", Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, Vol. 49 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/acmm.2002.12849cad.010

Exemplary anti-corrosion record for train braking systems

Exemplary anti-corrosion record for train braking systems

Keywords: Coatings, Corrosion resistance, Rail transport

Whitford Plastics Ltd reports that a low-friction dry lubricant surface coating it manufactures is being employed to provide a high operational efficiency, extended wear and corrosion protection for safety-critical braking systems used by the UK rail network (Plate 1).

According to the company, monitoring over 12 years has demonstrated the outstanding performance of its Xylan 1014 organic solvent-borne coating despite constant exposure to brake dust, flying ballast, abrasive particles and other debris, all of which form corrosive solutions when combined with water. Whitford also informs us that Xylan 1014 can be used on any surface requiring dry lubrication and is suitable for application to most common metals.

Swedish-owned SAB Wabco Ltd, based in Bromborough, Wirral, specifies Xylan 1014 for more than 4,000 new brake assemblies it manufactures each year, and a similar number received for routine refurbishment and repair after varying periods in service. SAB Wabco Product Engineer Tom Nicholson explains: "After more than ten years of using the Xylan 1014 coating, it is clear that it performs exceptionally well in harsh environments.

Plate 1 A low-friction dry lubricant surface coating manufactured by Whitford Plastics Ltd is being employed to provide high operational efficiency, extended wear and corrosion protection for safety-critical braking systems used by the UK rail network

Even in such arduous conditions, the coating has a lifespan of at least five years. By using the high performance Xylan coating, precision components and applying strict quality procedures, we are able to offer the extended guarantees our customers demand in such a safety-critical industry."

The Xylan 1014 specialist low-friction coating is applied to components that form a critical part of the OEM brake calliper assemblies fitted to a range of new generation rolling-stock.

Whitford's Xylan 1014 is said to be capable of withstanding high operating temperatures and is used to coat key components for pneumatic assemblies, which operate as part of vehicle braking systems for coaching stock, electric multiple unit and diesel multiple unit fleets.

The coating is applied by sub-contractor North West Enamellers in Buckley, North Wales, where components are degreased and bead-blasted prior to coating with Xylan 1014.

Two coats of Xylan 1014 black are applied, with a ten-minute flash-off time between coats, prior to curing. The entire process takes around 45 minutes and produces an external dry-film thickness, which can range from 30 to 60 microns. The treated components are then shipped to SAB Wabco for assembly.

Details available from: Whitford Plastics Ltd. Tel: +44 (0) 1928 57 1000; E-mail: sales@whitfordww.co.uk