Reducing traffic disruptions and damage to track and vehicles through improved regulations and procedures
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Chalmers Tekniska Högskola AB - Chalmers Tekniska Högskola Inst f Mekanik & Maritima Vetenskap |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 1 219 400 |
| Project duration | July 2023 - June 2026 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | Innovations for sustainable mobility |
| Call | Innovations for sustainable mobility - For a climate-neutral future - spring 2023 |
Important results from the project
The project exceeded its objectives by improving methods for measuring dynamic wheel loads and developing recommendations for risk-based wheel damage management. Key outcomes included revised wheel inspection routines after wheel damage that save more than 50 MSEK annually and a crack growth code, partly developed within the project, that enabled traffic to resume after the Iron Ore Line derailment. With disruption costs exceeding 100 MSEK per day, the benefits far outweigh the project budget.
Expected long term effects
The project outcome will support a more robust and cost-effective railway system through risk-based management of wheel defects, improved regulations, and more efficient maintenance. Expected benefits include fewer unnecessary traffic disruptions, lower maintenance costs, improved reliability, and better infrastructure protection. The developed methods also support predictive maintenance and have potential for wider national and international adoption.
Approach and implementation
The project was completed on schedule, with all four work packages successfully delivered. Through strong collaboration and the high level of expertise among the partners, all objectives were achieved. Despite limited funding covering only part of the work, the project generated results with significant practical value, substantial socio-economic benefits, and strong potential for long-term implementation.