Research project - DZSF - preliminary study of wheel fractures

An increased number of broken wheels on freight wagons has been documented in the recent past. A serious accident in the Gotthard Tunnel in Switzerland highlighted the relevance of the topic. Currently, several investigative authorities and research institutions, including a working group of the JNS of the ERA, are researching this topic. In the railway sector, there are currently different assessments as to the causes of this phenomenon. The state of research on the subject of wheel fractures and the associated accidents is currently very confusing, as it is spread across different institutions and countries. The aim is therefore to analyze the current state of knowledge and known research activities on this issue in a preliminary study and to identify research gaps and information needs that need to be closed for further research. In particular, the aim is to determine which influences lead to cracks in the wheels of freight wagons, whether these arise from individual events or permanent influences and how these influences can be minimized or avoided. For this purpose, causes and impact assessment are compared. The findings of the study provide a timely, neutral overview of the need for further research and provide a scientifically based prioritization of which further studies must follow.