The railway is a time-honored industry, finding its roots in the United States as far back as the early 1800s. And while the railway industry is centuries old, it certainly has not stayed stuck in the past.
Railways have flourished from their humble beginnings with steam locomotives to diesel-electric trains to the high-speed trains now used all over the world. Just as other forms of transport, such as the aviation industry, have evolved quickly with rapid developments in technology, the railway industry has done its part to keep up with the times and stay ahead of the technological times.
One way in particular that this industry has developed is through the use of nondestructive testing in the inspection and improvement of the railway and its processes. In today’s article, we feature another NDT Training Spotlight: The Railway Industry.
When it comes to infrastructure, some of the longest standing infrastructure still existing is in the railway industry. Because of this, preservation of assets is vital.
Not only have railways suffered a great amount of wear and tear due to centuries of faithful performance delivering cargo, they have also served the needs of countless commuters as the country has expanded and developed, increasing the needs for rail transportation.
There is a lot riding on the safe and speedy operations of railways (literally.) Nondestructive testing is beneficial for the railway industry because of the many ways it can help to preserve these crucial assets. NDT can be used to quickly and efficiently detect problems in wheels and rails, while locating other areas of concern that may be fatigued with age and use.
Nondestructive testing is the most precise and least invasive method to discovering potential risks in railway assets and attending to them promptly.
The types of nondestructive testing used in the railway industry include (but are certainly not limited to):
Ultrasonic Testing or UT appears to be a favored method of NDT technicians when it comes to the railway industry. Using this method, high frequency, directional sound waves are used to “measure material thickness, find hidden flaws, or analyze material properties,” according to the professionals at Olympus Industries.
UT is the most relied-upon method for rail testing and detection of flaws to help protect railways and the assets that operate on them.
Technicians looking for training in these types of nondestructive training can get crucial hours of hands-on experience under the guidance of seasoned professionals with training from TXNDT. Check out the 2020 Course Catalog for more details on NDT course offerings!
Assets used in the railway industry are highly sensitive and require the skills of a seasoned professional.The individuals inspecting railway assets and practicing ultrasonic testing must be highly trained professionals with ample hands-on experience to sufficiently perform inspections and evaluations.
NDT technicians who want to work in the railway industry should seek out on-going training and continue taking nondestructive testing courses on all of the latest railway technology to stay ahead of the curve and deepen their knowledge through NDT certification.
Whether it is the railway industry, infrastructure, or renewable energy, opportunities abound in the nondestructive testing field for technicians with a variety of interests. If you’re an engineer looking for ways to develop your skills and broaden your horizons NDT training is the perfect place to start.
From introductory NDT courses to NDT level 3 certification, we ensure that personnel are qualified and equipped to best serve their job functions and stay aware of any and all compliance needs and specifications.
If you or your staff are looking for ways to expand your skills and broaden your career opportunities through nondestructive testing courses, give us a call to day at (281) 231-0001 or check out our website for more information.
