Rail Grinding

Why Grind Rails?

• To remove millscale from the running surface before operation
• To reduce noise by grinding off corrugation
• To remove defects from the running surface or the gauge corner
• To extend lifetime of infrastructure by re-profiling the rail
• To reduce cost of maintenance of rolling stock
• To increase passenger comfort

With support from Goldschmidt Thermit Rail Services we can deploy a range of rail grinding machines, which are ideally suited to restoration of Metro and Urban track.

In 2004, the latest generation of VM 8000 series grinding machines were introduced into operation in Europe. The purpose built 4 wheel drive machine incorporates improved grinding control and recording and offers maximum environmental protection with noise reduction equipment, dust extraction, spark elimination, and a water curtain to reduce risk of fires etc. The 8 grinding stones are mounted as 2 pairs / rail each pair being automatically adjustable to the desired rail profile. The vehicle can grind grooved or conventional Vignole rails on a range of track gauges.

The VM8000 vehicle has been approved for track use in accordance with DeutchBahn directives 8249030 for main line use, and by BOstraB/BVG Berlin for Metro/tram Authorities, and we currently operate a fleet of five, which includes two 12 stone vehicles, (VM8000-12W), commissioned in 2006.

The vehicles can be prepared and positioned on the rail in under 5 minutes, and apart from changing the grindstones, no routine maintenance will be required during the shift. The vehicle is usually supported by a team of 3 - 2 controlling the grinding and replacement of the stones. While the vehicle may be driven on public roads, for long distances it is normally carried on its purpose built transporter and service module.

The range of grinding applications for which the unit has been deployed include:

• Restoration of the running edge
• Removal of surface corrosion and films (electrical contact)
• Removal of Corrugation
• Control of G.C.C.
• Full rail running surface re-profiling