Tram Fleet Uses Vesconite Hilube Liners to Reduce Noise
Vesconite Bearings recently received an order for 60 spherical Vesconite Hilube liners. This order came after less than one year of initial testing.
These liners will be used in the GE90-SW plain spherical bearings at the articulation points of the S6000 tram fleet operated by an Italian tram operator in a busy urban environment. This order reflects the tram operator’s confidence in Vesconite’s low-friction, wear-resistant solutions, which have significantly reduced noise during normal operation.
Before the adoption of Vesconite Hilube liners, the S6000-series trams utilized PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) liners in the articulation bearings.
Over time, these liners exhibited notable increases in noise levels, which were reported by both drivers and passengers as significant and disruptive. This noise pollution was exacerbated as the liners wore out, impacting the overall comfort and experience of tram journeys.
In May 2023, Vesconite Hilube liners were installed on four of the operator’s S6000-series trams, with six liners per tram, specifically aimed at replacing the originally specified material in the bearings.
The articulation points between the tram cars are crucial for tram maneuverability and are subject to high stress levels and environmental exposure, including:
• Rain, mud, pollution, and leaves.
• Temperature variations from -10°C to 40°C.
• A stretch of 200 m with an 8 percent gradient and other longer stretches with gradients between 4 and 5 percent.
• Minimum curve radius of 15 m.
Vesconite Hilube liners were chosen for their superior performance characteristics including internal lubrication, which removed the need for greasing; the ability to withstand a range of temperatures; resistance to wear from abrasive materials; and low-friction properties that facilitate smooth turning.
The installation of Vesconite Hilube liners led to immediate and noticeable improvements. The Italian tram operator reported reduced noise levels in the passenger lounges ⎻ a factor which has enhanced the overall journey experience for both passengers and drivers.
