Network Rail
Testing used the Sheffield University Rolling and Sliding (SUROS) twin-disc test rig, simulating a wheel/rail contact to provide friction and wear data.
The Lofrix testing at 3% creep and 900 MPa initially produced a minimum traction coefficient of 0.15 and then an average friction coefficient of 0.24 for the first 1000 cycles. A dry friction coefficient (0.4) was reached after an average of 1300 cycles.
The Lofrix coating could be suited to top of rail use, where an intermediate friction coefficient is required to reduce wear and energy consumption, but not so low that it impedes braking performance.
Future work is aimed to be carried out at 1% creep, where the coating would be expected to last for an increased number of cycles, to determine if the product could remain effective for longer under conditions that more closely represent rolling rather than braking or wheel flange/rail gauge contact. Further positive results are expected from this testing when it takes place.
The report of this testing can be viewed here
