Rail bogies are essential components that keep trains running smoothly and safely on tracks across the country. These heavy-duty assemblies carry the weight of the train and allow it to move seamlessly. Due to their size and weight, moving rail bogies efficiently requires specialised equipment. Tractive Power’s TP500HD Rail Mover is the perfect solution, capable of moving up to 50,000 kg (50 tonnes). Manufacturers across the UK trust battery-powered and pedestrian-operated pushers.
The Manufacturing Process of Rail Bogies
Rail bogies are complex, precision-engineered structures designed to withstand heavy loads and challenging conditions.
- Shaped Steel Plates: Manufacturing starts with shaped steel plates. These arrive at the factory pre-cut, bent to shape, and drilled with necessary holes. Chamfered edges create deep v-channels for full-depth welding.
- Assembly and Tacking: Workers assemble the components on large jigs, clamping plates and parts securely. An experienced welder then tack-welds the structure to make it rigid.
- Three-Dimensional Jig Rotation: The jig rotates and swivels, allowing welders to access every joint. Ensuring every component is securely attached before the next stage.
- Robot Welding: Once stable, workers transfer the assembly to robotic welders. They mount the frame on a jig that moves in three dimensions beneath a robotic welding arm. The system applies multi-pass welds to the V-shaped channels with precision, ensuring strength and consistency.
- Inspection and Finishing: After welding, the bogie frame undergoes automated inspections to verify critical dimensions and weld integrity. The frame is cleaned, shot-blasted, and painted. It is primed and finished in colours specified by the customer, ready for assembly onto trains.
Why Use Electric Rail Pushers for Moving Bogies?
Rail bogies are incredibly heavy, making them difficult and dangerous to move manually. Tractive Power’s TP500HD Rail Mover offers a safe, efficient alternative:
- High Capacity: Moves loads of up to 50,000 kg with ease.
- Pedestrian Operated: Designed for easy, single-user operation.
- Battery-Powered: Eco-friendly and efficient, eliminating the need for fuel-powered alternatives.
- Improved Safety: Reduces the need for manual handling, lowering the risk of workplace injuries.
Enhancing Efficiency in Rail Manufacturing with Tractive Power
Rail manufacturers face constant pressure to improve efficiency and streamline operations. Moving heavy bogies and components manually or with outdated equipment can lead to delays and increased labour costs. Tractive Power’s rail pushers solve these challenges by optimising the movement of components. With precise control and easy operation, our rail movers reduce downtime and minimise the need for multiple operators. Ensuring a smooth workflow. By integrating electric rail pushers into manufacturing processes, companies can meet tight deadlines while maintaining the highest safety standards.
Applications Beyond Rail Bogies
While ideal for rail bogies, the TP500HD and other Tractive Power tugs are versatile enough to handle a variety of heavy loads in warehouses and factories. From industrial machinery to large components, our battery-powered tugs make moving heavy-duty items simple, safe, and efficient.
Need Rail Pushers? Contact Us
If you’re looking for reliable, high-capacity rail pushers to handle heavy-duty tasks like moving rail bogies, Tractive Power has you covered. Our range of battery-powered tugs pushes and pulls loads of all sizes in various industrial environments. Contact us today to find the perfect solution for your needs.