Watch a Video about Impact Tests Using Flying Projectile Simulations
Flying ballast caused by travelling at speed can be disastrous for composite materials present on trains or along tracks.
So how do we determine the resistance of materials to impacts before they are put into service?
Impact Forces and Temperatures are Configured to Reproduce Flying Projectiles Under Real Conditions
Our partner, the Railway Test Agency, has its own “shooting range” for conducting impact tests using flying projectile simulations.
This test rig is used to test composite materials along tracks, on the main body of a train or on bogie components and bearings. The rig reproduces flying ballast of the type that might occur in a running situation. When ballast is not positioned correctly, it can be projected as the train passes by and impact with the composite materials on the trains or along the tracks, thus causing damage.
Different settings can recreate the configurations that materials may confront in real-life situations, including temperatures ranging from -25 °C to +70 °C. But more importantly, the energy impact (between K1 and K11) can be configured to represent projectile speeds of 50 to 350 km/hr.
Impact tests using simulations of flying projectiles in a railway environment are conducted to check the resistance of materials in compliance with Standard NF F 07-101 – Flying ballast impact simulation. These tests can also be applied to various business sectors where materials are exposed to impacts during use.
Demonstration in the video!