Railroad Inspection Equipment: Solutions for Ultrasonic Rail Testing

During routine railroad inspections, nondestructive testing (NDT) technicians use ultrasonic rail flaw detectors and high-speed rail testing Systems to scan tracks for defects. This specialized equipment detects defects in rails, welded joints, and turnouts and measures their size and location. Detecting defects in the early stages of development helps ensure the safety of passengers and freight by allowing for timely repairs or replacements of rails.

Ultrasonic Testing: The Primary NDT Method for Rail Integrity

In the railway industry, ultrasonic testing is the most common nondestructive technique used. Flaw detectors based on this method are used to inspect rail tracks for internal defects, including hidden flaws (not visible on the surface) that could lead to fractures. These detectors operate by pulsing high-frequency sound waves into the rail. When these waves encounter a defect, they reflect, absorbed, or scattered. By recording and analyzing these changes in the sound waves, the detector can identify the presence, type, size, and exact location of a defect.

Ultrasonic testing can detect almost all critical internal rail defects. This method is crucial for identifying defects early on, which helps prevent rail failures and ensures the safety of passengers and freight.

The OKOndt GROUP range of ultrasonic rail testing equipment includes:

• High-speed Systems for rail inspection cars and hi-rail vehicles. These testing machines allow NDT technicians to inspect the rails continuously, with minimal disruption to train traffic. Among these options, hi-rail vehicles are considered the most cost-effective solution for regular track inspections.
• Hand-pushed rail flaw detector trolleys for railway inspection. These detectors confirm the results of rail testing carried out by high-speed Systems and monitor short track sections. They offer an economical and convenient alternative to rail inspection cars when localized testing of regional lines and industrial tracks is required.

See also: Eddy Current Flaw Detectors for surface defect detection in rails

Rail Testing Equipment Pays Off in Terms of Safety, Savings, and Innovation

The OKOndt GROUP rail testing equipment has several benefits for track owners and railroad inspection service providers. It reduces unnecessary costs, incentivizes innovation, and improves rail safety.

We welcome collaboration with companies seeking advanced ultrasonic equipment for rail testing. Contact our team for expert assistance in selecting the optimal nondestructive testing solution for your railway inspection needs.