Reliable solutions for passenger and freight transportation. Increased safety and planning capacity thanks to sensor-based predictive maintenance. Sustainable recycling management for grease box bearings in railway applications.
Schaeffler opens participation in a dialogue on the future of rail transportation at the InnoTrans 2024 fair in Berlin (Germany): From September 24 to 27, 2024, in hall 21, booth 430, the Motion Technology Company will present product solutions to maximize reliability and availability; sensor-based systems and data models for predictive maintenance, and services to increase efficiency and sustainability.
“The portfolio we will present at InnoTrans 2024 once again demonstrates that sustainability is a powerful driver of innovation in the railway sector,” said Dr. Michael Holzapfel, Senior Vice President, Business Unit Rail at Schaeffler. “Our products and services are technologically pioneering and ensure greater energy efficiency, resource conservation, and maximum uptime. In this way, Schaeffler not only supports the sustainability goals of our customers, but also makes a significant strategic contribution to their competitiveness.”
Products for greater reliability and availability
Reliable and robust products, such as Schaeffler’s TAROL lubrication box bearings, one of the main products featured at InnoTrans 2024, are crucial to ensure maximum efficiency and uptime in rail transportation. Distinguished by their long service life and significantly extended maintenance intervals, these low-friction bearings are suitable for passenger trains, high-speed trains, heavy freight transportation, as well as locomotives, subways, and trams.
Schaeffler manufactures its TAROL lubrication box bearings based on the application and performance requirements specified by the customer. This includes adapting the dimensions and materials of the bearings to the required payload and mileage. For freight locomotives (class GG), special seals with optimized friction are available, while for heavy freight traffic (class K) variants are offered that ensure safe and energy-efficient operation. Schaeffler’s TAROL lubrication box bearings and components are approved according to the AAR (Association of American Railroads) standard and the European standard EN 12080, making them suitable for use in regions such as the USA, Australia, India, and Southeast Asia.
Data-based condition monitoring enables predictive maintenance
Schaeffler’s Datamatrix Code (DMC) serves as the starting point for the digital supply chain of its products by identifying components with a unique digital laser marking. This allows for continuous recording of product data, operating data, and maintenance information, creating a digital twin for condition monitoring and predictive maintenance planning.
At the same time, the DMC code serves as a digital reference for data exchange between Schaeffler, OEMs, and rail operators. Through reciprocal linking of databases, condition monitoring systems can be configured to access data from existing fixed systems (wayside monitoring devices). At InnoTrans 2024, Schaeffler will present an initial model based on a feasibility study conducted in Switzerland. Schaeffler will also showcase vehicle-based sensor systems (Railway Condition Monitoring Systems, RCMS), which further enhance the safety of rail traffic.
Remanufacturing for more economical and sustainable rail operations
The circular system is a key approach for sustainable rail transportation management. To this end, Schaeffler has developed a highly successful bearing remanufacturing service that can save up to 95% of resources, depending on the degree of refurbishment required. At the same time, Schaeffler offers the same quality and safety standards with its 100% return service, and remanufactured bearings come with the same warranty as new products. As a full member of the “Railsponsible” initiative, Schaeffler reaffirms its commitment to increased sustainability in the rail industry.
In another innovation, Schaeffler will also showcase its Smart Maintenance Tools products (formerly known as Bega Special Tools) at the InnoTrans fair. This new addition complements Schaeffler’s portfolio, which now offers a comprehensive approach covering sustainable products and services, refurbishment, and maintenance.
For additional information about Schaeffler at InnoTrans 2024, click here.
via: MiMub in Spanish
