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If
the steering components on steerable
bogies are not designed and maintained to
required standards, and become degraded:
-
Wheelsets
can undergo elevated dynamic movements
causing increased wheel-rail forces
and derailment risk on poor track;
and
-
Bogie
wheelbase can vary dynamically, which
can negatively affect bogie-mounted
brake performance.
Rolling
Stock Operators (RSOs) must ensure:
-
Rolling
stock inspections identify signs of
wear, degradation and ineffective
function of steerable bogie components
such as adapter rubber pads and
cross-anchor bushes.
-
Steering
mechanisms on steerable bogies are
functioning correctly to control
wheelset dynamic movement
and maintain wheelbase.
-
Bogie-mounted
brakes function correctly when bogies
and/or brake rigging are in the worst
allowable condition.
RSOs
should examine all risks associated with
wheelset dynamics and braking performance
on their rolling stock, including in
minimum maintainable condition.
RSOs
procuring, or considering procuring,
steerable bogies with components such as
adaptor rubber pads and cross anchor
bushes should ensure these components meet
required standards and should be aware of
the extra maintenance associated with
steering mechanisms.
This
advice is effective immediately.
Peter Doggett
Chief Operating Officer |
