The preferred method for preventing fatigue crack issues in rail bolt holes and extending their service life.
As the appointed global reseller of Fatigue Technology (FTI), we can support with RailTec Cold Bolt Hole Expansion (CBX) – a preventative process to reduce rail breakages, track-related incidents and derailments. When trains pass over the Insulated Block Joint and any fishplated rail ends, the constant stresses and forces exerted on the rail ends are concentrated at the bolt hole. The RailTec CBX process is designed to arrest crack propagation and extend the fatigue life of bolt holes. The CBX kit itself includes split sleeves, application mandrel and a mandrel checking gauge which contractors can use to apply the process to drilled holes.
The technique is superior to any other method of cold working bolt holes out there. This is because the process generates a more controllable distribution of compressive stress around a hole and through the bore, without damaging the integrity of the hole. Fatigue test data comparing as-drilled holes with cold expanded holes revealed that the cold expanded holes performed better in improving the fatigue life.
How we can support you with the process
If you choose to purchase our RailTec Cold Hole Expansion (CBX) kit, our qualified staff will provide you with hands-on on-site training and guidance on how to install it. We can train both national and international clients. Whoever is installing the RailTec CBX technology will need to hold the appropriate certification from FTI in order to use the system. Please contact us for more information.
