Ben Holland
Bay Area Rapid Transit
Greg Shivy
Bay Area Rapid Transit
Abstract:
Bay Area Rapid Transit’s Move from a Cylindrical to Tapered Wheel Profile
BART expects to realize dramatically longer wheel and rail life, and a much quieter rail system by changing to a modified tapered wheel profile. The original cylindrical wheel profile chosen by the architects of the BART system has been in operation for a little over 40 years. It has been proven to be reliable and comfortable for BART passengers. However, over the years, it has become apparent that the cylindrical profile results in pervasive 2-point contact, severe corrugation growth, unbearable noise and extreme flange wear. This presentation will explain the steps BART took to develop and implement a new wheel profile, and the plan to make it a successful change.