Vesconite Hilube motor axle bushings are currently in operation in a double-decker tram application, replacing traditional bronze and white metal bearings. The application was introduced in response to rising cost pressures and supply challenges associated with these conventional bearing materials.
The tram fleet operates in a demanding urban environment, with Vesconite Hilube bushings installed in the motor axle bearing arrangement of the tram’s two traction motors.
Vesconite Bearings supports the railway industry through a modern manufacturing facility with advanced CNC turning, milling, 5-axis machining and injection moulding capabilities, enabling the production of complex railway wear components and specialised bearing geometries. For this application, the motor axle bushings were manufactured from extruded material and precision-machined to final dimensions.
The application involves double-decker trams with a gross vehicle weight of approximately 21 tonnes, operating at speeds between 15 km/h and 30 km/h in urban service conditions. Due to the relatively low operating speeds, frictional heat generation remains manageable, making the application well suited to Vesconite Hilube. Vesconite engineers were involved in assessing the operating conditions to ensure suitability for the application.
The bushings have now been in continuous operation for more than six months, with measurements and inspections to date demonstrating reliable performance and negligible wear.
While a full engineering evaluation will be conducted during the next scheduled bogie overhaul cycle, the positive in-service performance achieved to date has already resulted in consideration being given to extending the application to additional trams within the fleet.
This application highlights the potential for advanced engineering polymers to provide reliable, cost-effective alternatives to traditional bronze and white metal bearings in demanding railway environments.
