Protection

Rubber-metal protection systems play a crucial role in rail transportation, as they reliably protect sensitive vehicle components from external influences and mechanical stresses. In the area of axle shaft and wheel set protection, for example, mountable protectors such as the axle shaft protector (MERP®) are used to safeguard wheel set shafts against stone chips, flying ballast, ice chunks, foreign objects, surface damage, and corrosion. These maintenance-free systems consist of robust, fully vulcanized elastomer-metal composites and are easy to install. In addition, impact protection strips on the vehicle undercarriage protect the structure from impact loads and lateral contact with obstacles by absorbing energy and reducing damage to load-bearing components. Brake and clutch systems also benefit from rubber-metal elements that protect disc brakes, lines, and powertrain components from dirt, gravel, and vibrations, thereby enhancing operational reliability. In the underfloor and power unit areas, corresponding protection systems reliably shield components such as battery boxes, air conditioning systems, transformers, and electronics against environmental influences, vibrations, and stone chips. Overall, rubber-metal protection systems contribute significantly to the operational safety and longevity of rail vehicles thanks to their high durability, effective vibration and noise damping, and low maintenance requirements.