Stresses on running gear - Study on the corrosion of running gear - Testing, bibliography and observation of corrosion

Corrosion is a physical phenomenon, which must be considered with regard to the deterioration of the physical characteristics of components and, therefore, responsible for a reduction in safety and an increase in maintenance costs.

The various factors in corrosion are analysed and theoretical considerations presented, in order to research methods of combating corrosion.

Examination of different types of corrosion enables typical cases to be listed, with their causes and consequences. Also analysed are complex cases, such as corrosion under stress, fatigue corrosion, fragilisation by hydrogen and fretting-corrosion.

Concrete cases are reviewed in various technical sectors, starting with the railway industry, and followed by the aeronautical, shipbuilding and motor industries.

Those responsible for standards are aware of the problem and attempt to take it into account by test descriptions and selection of protection systems. Efforts have been made to list these documents at European level.

Global analysis is also extended to other geographical areas: Japan and North America.

Current knowledge concerning measures linked to corrosion and its detection has been put together, most specifically concerning non-destructive procedures.

Finally the results of a survey among the different rail transport networks are presented, in order to draw up a map and an analysis of problems relating to corrosion which are encountered in service.