Pneumatic air springs for railway vehicles

Abstract

The pneumatic springs are used in different applications in order to eliminate vibrations and shocks (suspension vehicles and equipment) as actuators machinery, producing shocks and vibrations (presses, pneumatic hammers, looms, etc.). The pneumatic spring consists of pliable rubber-reinforced metal elements fixed on or within the composite which is air which normally acts as a damping spring. Generally, the upper and lower steel elements are attached to the frame, so that not replaced. Besides comfort, has the advantage of allowing the vehicle to change the height depending on the dynamic stresses to which the material is subjected rolling stock. Diaphragm pneumatic actuator springs are easy to install and secure, thanks to their elasticity and flexibility, which allows a large vertical displacement. The metal plate fixation can be of two types: conical or crimped. When fixing the conical top plate embedded in the membrane pressure; replacement of the latter can be reused. Attaching the crimped arc prevents breakage from extreme stress; the upper plate is fixed through crimping on the edges of the membrane. The main advantage of Pneumatic springs is allowing internal pressure variation to provide a high level of comfort while driving. It also allows the vehicle height control box to the path, or keeping constant load variation or changing it automatically by dynamic loads occurring during the movement. Thanks to the special conformation of the pneumatic spring type circumvolution (Figure 5) and the structure characteristic of the pneumatic spring with a reduced height to obtain a high run. Maintaining the operating conditions, reducing wear, and achieving a long operating period of the suspension system are determined by the operating conditions and the quality of the components which are included in the railway vehicle suspension.