Why is wheelset temperature monitoring crucial to train safety?

Wheel bogie bearings operate under high loads, which means that they generate significant amounts of heat during travel. This heat is a natural result of friction and the transfer of mechanical loads, but excess heat can be very dangerous. Why? High temperatures in bearings can lead to the degradation of lubricant, which is a key protective element in the system. Without adequate lubrication, metal bearing components begin to rub against each other, resulting in rapid wear and the risk of serious gearbox damage.

Constant temperature monitoring allows you to respond to heat build-up before the problem becomes critical. If bearings begin to overheat, the system can automatically raise an alert, allowing intervention even before failure occurs. If not monitored, overheating can lead to bearing seizure and gearbox blockage, which directly threatens the safety of the train and its passengers. Gearbox failure while the train is running may require an emergency stop, which not only causes delays, but can also lead to dangerous situations on the tracks.

In practice, regular temperature monitoring of the wheelsets increases the safety of the entire system and extends the life of key components, which reduces operating costs. It is by monitoring the temperature that operators can ensure that the train will operate reliably and safely for a long time.

What difficulties were associated with the temperature monitoring requirements? The customer's problem

A train-building company faced a particularly challenging order. The new project involved the delivery of trains for a railway company that operates in harsh, cold conditions. This was not only a race against time, but also against technical challenges that required advanced temperature monitoring solutions for key components.

The scale of the challenge was significant. The installation was to include thousands of temperature sensors - each of which had to not only perform reliably, but also withstand harsh operating conditions and provide accurate measurement data over a long period of time. For this reason, standard sensors alone were not sufficient; something more was needed.

There were also specific technical requirements that further raised the bar. The system had to be resistant to vibration and shock, which is unavoidable in rail transport, as well as ensuring measurement stability in the extreme temperature range of -50°C to +200°C. Such operating conditions meant that the sensors had to meet high standards of quality and reliability.

The customer therefore expected a solution that would not only provide an adequate level of safety and accuracy, but also comply with stringent industry standards such as DIN EN 50155 and EN 61373. The expectations also included ease of installation and compatibility with rail vehicles. This was an order that required advanced technology and maximum reliability.

What solution allows effective temperature monitoring in rail vehicles? Our solution

In response to our customer's needs, we proposed the JUMO railTEMP sensor, ideally suited to the requirements of the railway industry. Its resistance to vibration and shock and its compliance with DIN EN 50155 and EN 61373 guarantee its reliability in intensive use.

JUMO railTEMP temperature sensor for trains and rail vehicles operates from -50°C to +200°C, ensuring precise monitoring of wheels and bearings even at extreme temperatures. In addition, halogen-free materials and reinforced cable protection increase the safety of the system, which is crucial in railway applications.

By implementing this solution, the customer has gained the confidence that all key components will be monitored in real time, minimising the risk of failure and increasing train reliability.

What benefits has the rail vehicle manufacturer gained from temperature sensors for trains? Customer benefits

The JUMO railTEMP sensors fully met the customer's high requirements. They guaranteed reliability, meeting both technical requirements and industry standards. It was a solution that could operate over a wide temperature range and was prepared for intensive operation in conditions typical of rail transport.

Another major advantage was the cost-effectiveness of the solution. The train-building company needed thousands of sensors and JUMO supplied the full volume without the need for additional suppliers. As a result, the project ran smoothly, with no delays due to component availability issues.

JUMO's certified probes also provided a guarantee of quality. By meeting standards such as DIN EN 50155 and EN 61373, the sensors ensured safety and resistance to shock and vibration, which meant less risk of failure and additional service costs. For the customer, it was the assurance that the components would last for years of use.

This gave the company a competitive advantage to meet the highest standards of durability and safety. Such a solution increased its credibility in the rail market and underlined its ability to deliver reliable, certified solutions.

About the author

My name is Ewelina Szmit and I have been working in content marketing for several years, combining my professional skills with my passion for writing. I am convinced that even the most technical topics can be presented in an interesting and accessible way for everyone. Outside of work, I unleash my creativity by creating newspaper collages. I like to spend my free time being active, walking my dog or running.

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