Controlled Heat Straightening for the Rolling Stock Structures to Restore Their Serviceability

This edition presents a collective monograph devoted to controlled heat straightening techniques for restoring the serviceability of rolling stock structures, particularly freight wagons. The book examines theoretical, methodological and applied problems connected with distortions that occur during the production, repair and operation of welded structural components. Special attention is given to post-welding deformations, residual stresses and the technological methods used to reduce or eliminate them in wagon metal structures. The authors analyse cold and thermal straightening methods and demonstrate the advantages of controlled local heat straightening for complex and large-size transport structures. A significant part of the study is devoted to mathematical modelling, optimisation of heating zones and the use of finite element analysis for evaluating temperature fields, stresses and deformations. The monograph also describes wedge-shaped heating as a practical method for straightening key open wagon elements, including the centre sill and top cord. Experimental research confirms the effectiveness of the proposed techniques and shows that controlled thermal straightening can restore geometric accuracy without significant deterioration of material properties. The study includes metallographic analysis, mechanical testing and cost-benefit evaluation of improved technology for wagon production and maintenance. The proposed methods may also be applied to other metal structures in transport and mechanical engineering. The publication is intended for specialists in transport engineering, design engineers, researchers, developers, postgraduate students and graduate students of railway transport engineering.