Eurailmag - #15 - March 2007 - (Page 14)

Coatings polyurethane can be used as a leveling intermediate layer. Ultra-Violet curing coatings are suitable for anti-graffiti clear coats. Robot technology from the automotive sector, combined with infrared curing, is being considered for various locations. Simulating air flows in the painting booth is a helpful tool for increasing First Run Quote of paint applications, reducing overspray and optimizing throughput times. The automotive sector has been a useful pioneer in this aspect of production management. Another sector that shows best practice examples is aircraft manufacturing. Anodising aluminium (producing a durable aluminum oxide layer by dipping it in acid while connecting an electrical current) gives good results. Moreover, its tiny pores can serve as an anchoring ground for the base coat. Ultra Violet protection, de-icing and dirt repellency properties, low-wear topcoats and film thickness reduction are relevant items, as is chromate replacement. Micro-roughness is a determining factor in both aerodynamics and turbulence. It also influences the extent to which insects and dirt attach to coated surfaces. A foil coated Cathay Pacific A340 was tested, with its payload increased by four tons, at fuel consumption of 98-99% the normal. Thirty percent of the aircraft was covered with foil in this test. Self healing polymers that release resin when cracked are in the lab phase; the aircraft industry expects to have applications in use in about ten years’ time. As certification schemes and admission to specifications tend to take rather long in the aerospace industry, railway applications might take the lead here. Various improvements are handed down from other sectors, such as improved multi-metal glues, fast filling stations to replace kit cartridges, etc. It was mentioned, however, that introducing technology proven elsewhere requires educated and skilled operators. It goes without saying that this applies to any sector, not just surface engineering and coating, but still it was an important remark. Long term protection Nanotechnology is a popular theme nowadays. Properties of railway applications include hardness, scratch, wear and chemical resistance. Nanosilver can be incorporated into coatings to make them more hygienic, though stainless steel might serve that purpose just as well (and more permanently). Anyway, long term surface properties aren’t only defined by the coatings or foil selected, but also by washing and cleaning procedures. Some users specify technicians leave maintenance cleaning to coach owners. Other duration and even safety aspects aren’t even visible, e.g., examining and refurbishing axes that might be chipped by stones or otherwise. In short, anyone who missed out on this great conference, with its many best practice showcases, missed a perfect opportunity to gain insights and find new inspiration. Cooperation between the various segments of the production chain, technological advances and the importance of technically skilled and trained personnel, were successfully highlighted. “Pappa Ecolromat” Gruninger, in his closing remarks and thanks to the translators and organizing Vincentz organisers, could look back on a successful venue, rolling at full steam from beginning to end. The dinner party One museum guide drives a historic locomotive himself, on several occasions each summer. Its fuel consumption is a staggering 70:1 (kilos of coal to a kilometer). “A steam locomotive lives, a TGV is just a sardine tin”, was all the collegiality he could spare. Initiator in the 80’s of the Ecolromat, sir “Papa Ecolromat” Jean-Chrétien Gruninger, in full motion, singing smash hits like “C'est si bon” and “Boire un petit coup, c´est agréable”! Prima la musica added to the already cosy atmosphere Issue 15 EURAILmag Business & Technology http://www.colours.helios.si http://www.colours.helios.si

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Eurailmag - #15 - March 2007

SOMMAIRE
NOTICE BOARD
COATINGS
NEWS
SERVICES
INFRASTRUCTURE
HIGH-SPEED LINES
TUNNELS
PEOPLE
ROLLING STOCK
WEBSITE DIRECTORY

Eurailmag - #15 - March 2007

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