Among all the factors that can be credited to the development of human civilization as we know it today, railways have played a significant role. The socioeconomic dynamics of India have been shaped by railways ever since their introduction in 1853, and the growth of steel plates and coil development and manufacturing in the country has ensured self-sufficiency and progress at a rapid rate.
With the introduction of LHB, or Linke Hofmann Busch rakes in the IR network in recent years, the overall capabilities of the network, especially in the category of passenger transit, have improved massively. High-grade coils and steel plates in India have helped domestic manufacturers like ICF, RWF, CLW, and others to cater to the developmental demands of the industry like never before.
In this blog, we will be taking a look at the different types of coils and steel plates in India that are used to construct modern LHB structures, running gears, and wheels, and why the various offerings by the steel plate manufacturers in India ensure quality and efficiency on an unprecedented scale.
Car Body Shell
The LHB car body shell isn’t made from homogenous materials, but a mix of different non-corrosive steel options from steel plate manufacturers in India. The different components are expected to fulfil diversified roles and be exposed to a multitude of different environmental and stress functions, and to that end, using the materials that are best suited for the same is pivotal.
The side walls, end walls, and roof structures of LHB compartments that are becoming ever-more ubiquitous on the IR network feature X2 Cr8 Ferritic Steel (SS 409M), while the roof sheet and trough floor involves X5 Cr 18 Ni 10 Austenitic Steel (SS 304). These are extensively tested to ensure that they can withstand the vagaries that they would have to face during their operational existence.
The underframe of an LHB coach is comprised of components like sole bars, floor, cross bars, and more. Typically, IRSM 41/Corten Steel is used for their construction. This type of steel is available in a wide range of options, and the exact requirement would determine the usage pattern of this type of steel. For coil and steel plate manufacturers in India, some of the common grades and variants that we commonly encounter are IRSM 41, EN_10155_S355J2G1W / S355_JOWP, ASTM A588 Grade A/Grade B/ Grade K, BS 4360 WR 50A, and JIS G 3125 SPAH.
The different types of steel plates and coils that are used in the construction of LHB coaches are selected on the basis of the qualities that they would offer, and widely speaking, the aforementioned types of steel feature exceptional rupture strengths, can be worked upon with ease, have good tolerances and can be worked on easily, and is highly corrosion resistant as well. These are some of the many factors that make them well-suited for the job.
Bogies and wheel assembly
When it comes to the construction of wheels and bogies that are fitted in the latest LHB coaches that are being built by the various railway manufacturers in the country, a mix of high-tensile, corrosion-resistant steel is used. The older ICFs came with a different assembly and composition, and due to the drawbacks that they presented, the LHBs incorporated several world-class innovations that prioritize safety, passenger comfort, and network efficiency over all else.
In conclusion
For a country as vast, economically vibrant and diverse as India, it can be rightly said that the railways act as the transportation backbone of the country. Steel plate manufacturers in India are rapidly developing advanced materials and manufacturing practices that are helping us stay ahead of the curve, especially when widespread development and advancements are concerned. In light of these considerations, it can safely be said that the future certainly does look bright for the entire sector.