Spring Washer
Spring washers, consisting of metal discs and a rubber body, are used in railway vehicle wheels to provide high spring forces with minimal spring rate in a confined space. The design and combination of materials used enable these components to meet the high requirements of this application.
Area of application
A rubber-metal spring washer forms the elastic intermediate layer between the tire and the wheel disc of a resilient railway vehicle wheel. It is inserted into metal housings and exhibits defined spring and damping properties. This elastic mounting reduces structure-borne noise and shock loads and it helps reduce wheel and rail wear by cushioning load peaks and distributing forces more evenly. The spring washer also allows for slight vertical, lateral and torsional relative movements between the wheel tire and the wheel body, thereby improving dynamic ride performance. High-quality, fatigue-resistant rubber compounds ensure a long service life under high cyclic loads.
Technical details
Spring washers consist of two molded steel washers and a vulcanized rubber body. They provide elastic support for the tire on the wheel disc and effectively dampen shocks and structure-borne noise. They help reduce wear on the wheel and rail, improve dynamic ride quality and allow for defined relative movements within the wheel.
Characteristics
Spring washers are characterized by high force density, a finely adjustable spring characteristic curve and rapid responsiveness to load changes. They exhibit low relaxation and high fatigue strength. This combination makes them particularly reliable, durable and compact spring elements for use in railway vehicle wheels.