Enhancing and automating non-destructive testing techniques for railway wheelsets
University of Southampton Solent
With support from Govia Thameslink Railway
SUMMARY
This project explored the feasibility of creating and implementing an automated wheelset and axle multi-sensor non-destructive testing toolset, incorporating a range of contactless ultrasound, laser and other current and future sensor technologies. Following an investigation of defect types and sensor technology an initial prototype was developed, demonstrating how these technologies could be combined to create a NDT sensor system designed to allow quick, easy and localised detection of wheelset defects.
Future work in this area could involve using the outputs from this feasibility study to develop and deploy an inspection system on-site, as a proof-of-concept demonstrator.
