Urban Rail Ultrasonic Testing System (UR-UT)

Ultrasonic Rail Testing System for Tram, Metro, and Urban Rail Networks

The UR-UT is an ultrasonic rail testing system designed for tram, metro, and urban rail infrastructure. The system operates on a self-propelled electric trolley and supports ultrasonic inspection with optional track geometry measurement for urban rail maintenance and condition monitoring.

metro rail ultrasonic testing

Key Features

  • Self-propelled electric inspection trolley
  • 18 ultrasonic channels for full rail coverage
  • Inspection speed up to 15 km/h
  • Real-time B-scan visualization
  • Optional track geometry measurement
  • Single-operator operation
  • Suitable for tram, metro, and light rail networks

Optional Track Geometry Measurement

  • Gauge measurement
  • Alignment monitoring
  • Cross-level measurement
  • Synchronized acquisition with ultrasonic inspection data

Data Acquisition and Analysis

  • Real-time defect detection and evaluation
  • Online and offline data analysis
  • Optional GPS-based defect localization
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Operational Features

  • Self-propelled battery-powered platform
  • Operation through switches and intersections
  • Low-consumption water circulation system

The TrackMaster

The UR-UT is delivered with integrated TrackMaster software, a complete package for data collection, presentation and analysis. The software covers all phases of system operation, from configuration and inspection to post-processing. Data can be processed in both offline and online modes. In addition, data records can be used to establish a baseline for comparative periodic monitoring of rail conditions.

The analysis function is used to identify and categorize flaws in a scan. It is based on a defect finder algorithm with an integrated noise reduction algorithm or/and an integrated AI/Fuzzy Logic algorithm. Using this analysis features eliminates the need for specially trained personnel and reduces the total cost of system usage.

The analysis module enables the issue of a report containing a list of all suspected flaws, their locations in the scanned track and the distance from the nearest reference points.

This report is useful to the repair teams responsible for locating detected flaws on the relevant section of rail and performing required maintenance operations.

rail ultrasonic testing

What is ultrasonic testing of rails

Ultrasonic testing of rails is a non-destructive testing (NDT) method that uses high-frequency sound waves to detect defects in the interior of rails. The sound waves are transmitted into the rail and reflected back if they encounter a defect. The reflected sound waves are then analyzed to determine the size, location, and nature of the defect.

Ultrasonic testing is a very effective method for detecting defects in rails, such as cracks, voids, and inclusions. It is also a relatively safe and quick method, making it ideal for inspecting large lengths of rail.

Ultrasonic testing of rails is typically performed using a portable ultrasonic testing device. The device is equipped with a transducer that generates the sound waves and a receiver that detects the reflected sound waves. The transducer is placed on the surface of the rail and the sound waves are transmitted into the rail. The receiver then collects the reflected sound waves and sends them to the device's computer for analysis.

The computer software analyzes the reflected sound waves to determine the size, location, and type of the defect. The software can also create an image of the defect, which can be used to plan repairs.

Ultrasonic testing of rails is an essential NDT method for ensuring the safety of railway tracks. By detecting defects in rails before they cause a failure, ultrasonic testing can help to prevent derailments and other accidents.

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