Optimizing the Maintenance Program for Passenger Vehicles (OMP)

Abstract

Rubber-metal components and hydraulic vibration dampers in bogies are subject to mechanical loads and time-dependent aging. Therefore, bogies receive an overhaul after a defined limit mileage (e.g. 1.5 million km) or limit time (e.g. 8 years), during which the affected components are replaced. By optimizing the heavy maintenance of bogies in rail vehicles, it is possible to stretch the running time or mileage intervals of the revision of the bogies or individual components with an acceptable increase in risk for the operation. In particular, the components of the running gear that are not designed to be fatigue-resistant and are not already subject to a separate maintenance strategy are considered. Furthermore, hydraulic vibration dampers and rubber-to-metal elements in the wheelset guidance system, in the spring systems (primary/secondary) and in the running gear steering system are particularly relevant for the investigation. This measure can reduce maintenance costs and increase vehicle availability. This approach to maintenance optimization has been successfully applied and implemented by DB AG in local and long-distance transport for several years.