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Production
CNC Machining of Switches and CMS Crossings
Manufactured by CAD/CAM systems, using standard materials or special wear-resistant materials like HSH (Head Special Hardened). Switches with an asymmetrical transition area which is heat-treated to guarantee a constant hardness gradient in the forged area.
Similarly, CMS Crossings are being CNC-machined for optimum dimensional accuracy and best surface finish
- Reduced wear
- Lower forces
- Lower accelerations
- Less maintenance
- Lower life-cycle costs
Manufacture
Different microstructure and hardness in the switch rail section
The switches are manufactured in accordance with the technical terms of supply of UIC and CEN, supplemented by the specific requirements of the customers and the vast experience of VAE. Tongue rails can be manufactured and delivered in lengths of 50 meters and more, with or without forging, in one piece.
Milling of the switch rail
The switches are prepared for the mounting of all commonly used locking types and setting devices. For medium and high loads, the material R260 (S900) is generally used for stock rails and switches.
For highest loads, rails type R350 HT (S900 HSH) (Head Special Hardened) are used. These rails are manufactured according to a special heat-treatment procedure. The fine pearlitic structure is particularly suitable for rolling contact due to its high wear resistance combined with high tensile strength and elongation.
Forging – designed
Switch forging
At the end of the asymmetrical switch section, the required rail section is obtained by forging. The tools and equipment for this essential technology are designed and manufactured at the VAE factories in order to be able to supply top quality products and provide safe manufacturing procedures. The weld joint is in any case outside of the transition area.
Forging – manufactured
Inductive Heat Treatment
Heat Treatment
The decreasing tensile strength in the heat affected zone of the forging is eliminated by a computer-controlled heat treatment process, which is carried out as a standard procedure at VAE. This patented procedure reduces the formation of soft spots on the running surface of the switch. After the forging procedure, the fishing table corresponds to the measurements of the rolled rail. The area of the head and foot is adjusted to the required measurements by machining.
