The RailTec System was developed for the rail industry
and is based on FTI's Split Sleeve Cold Expansion System.
The flexibility of the system enables it to be easily
applied to all main line or branch line track as part
of routine maintenance. Rail with small fatigue cracks
can be reworked and safely returned to service. Additionally,
the system can be used during the manufacture of rails,
frogs, and switches.
The cold expansion process
increases the life of a bolt hole by producing a zone
of residual compressive stresses around the hole. This
is achieved by drawing an oversized, tapered mandrel
through an internally pre-lubricated split sleeve in
the hole. When the mandrel passes through the hole,
the combined major diameter of the mandrel and thickness
of the sleeve enlarge the hole, yielding the material
directly around the hole and creating the protective
zone of residual stress. This zone protects the hole
from the stresses applied to the rail end and significantly
decreases the probability of fatigue cracks. The cold
expansion process, when applied to typical rail stock,
increases the life of the bolt hole by at least 3:1.
• Improves the fatigue life of the hole by at least 3:1
• Arrests the growth or small cracks
• Cost-effective alternative to new track
• Reduces maintenance and inspection costs
• Increases the overall structural integrity
and safety of the line
Step 1.Measure the diameter of the hole using the
Mandrel Selection Gage
Step 2. Slide the internally
pre-lubricated split sleeve over the selected mandrel
Step 3.Insert and seat
the mandrel/sleeve assembly into the hole ensuring that
the tang end of the mandrel is on the outside of the rail
Step 4. Place the nosecap
of the puller unit down onto the tang end of the mandrel.
Make sure the nosecap is flush against the rail
Step 5. Activate the
puller unit to pull the mandrel through the sleeve and
cold expand the hole
Step 6. Remove the used
sleeve from the hole and discard
RailTec system tooling is both flexible and durable.
To facilitate track maintenance, the FT-600 PowerPak
incorporates a gasoline powered engine to drive the
hydraulic pump. An electric powered version, the FT-700,
is available for workshop environments or where electric
power is preferable.
The RailTec tooling system
includes:
Mandrel
Jaws
Split Sleeves
Combination Gage
Mandrel Gage
Nosecap
Puller
Power Par
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