Wheel Set Scan System (WS3)

• Two scanning fixtures for axle testing (adapted to axle body and journal diameters)
• Two scanning fixtures for testing wheel rims
• High-end PAUT instrument (32:128) with online and offline software
• Encoders and splitters
• Reference wheelset
• Training for testing personnel
• Online and offline support

• WS3 uses guide fixtures to position PAUT probes precisely on the testing surface
• Encoders record probe positions and stop the scan automatically
• Test data is also recorded automatically
• Probe positions and test data are linked

The result is comprehensive, location-specific information about the condition of the component.

The choice of PAUT probes (number and size of elements, pitch, frequencies, etc.) results from optimising:

• High signal stability
• High signal-to-noise ratio
• Sound field geometry
• POD

• Consistent use of PAUT imaging capabilities
• PAUT testing of the axle seat with the probe positioned on the axle body
• UT indications caused by geometry and flaw signals can be visualised
• Superimposing UT indications on the axle geometry considerably improves interpretation and, consequently, testing reliability

• Checking that the probe is correctly coupled
• Monitoring the operation of the probe itself
• This allows test data acquisition and evaluation to be carried out at different times

Detection limit in the wheel-to-axle interference fit

• Semi-ellipse with a depth of 1.0 mm and a length of 2.5 mm
• 2.5 mm corresponds to the indication length that would be found by magnetic particle testing

Ways to maximise information through different display formats:

• Scan setup
• C-scan from both probes for very effective flaw detection
• D-scan from both probes supports sizing (length and depth)
• C-scan of coupling monitoring from both probes

PAUT signal imaging also works on wheelset axles with considerably more complex contours and poorer accessibility than those used on freight wagons.

A reference wheelset offers many benefits compared with individual reference blocks:

• Sensitivity setting for the wheel and axle
• For the axle, including the wheel-to-axle interference fit
• TCG/ACG adjustment
• Validation of the testing system
• Training of NDT personnel
• Demonstrating the capabilities of the testing system to customers

• Focus on small and medium-sized workshops, providing highly informative test results
• Modular design (automation options from mobile manual testing to a test rig)
• For example, axle testing with four probes simultaneously
• Testing time (time for probe movement) for all four probes: approximately 60 seconds

Comprehensive training is part of the WS3 package. It includes:

• Creating setups
• Performing scans
• Evaluating test data
• Saving raw data