The Shape of Things to Come: Welding and Grinding R&D Remains a Priority Today so Railroads Have Better Options to Keep Rail in Top Form Tomorrow

This article focuses on the welding and grinding needs of railroads in order to keep rails in good shape. Railroad maintenance officials look for grinding and welding processes that are easier to complete, require less track time, last a long time, but cost less. Unfortunately, no thermite welds meet all four criteria. The author describes various products in research and development that may help meet these needs, including a robotic gas metal arc slot weld, high performance welds, and a new generation air/propane pre-heating system which can be used by only one operator.