Success stories

Dinghan SMART Railway Technology GmbH

Secure fastener connections under maximal dynamic stress

Proven loosening protection – Nord-Lock® wedge‑locking washers

In the case of components used for railroads, it is immensely important to create reliable and resilient connections. Appropriate measures must be taken in the case of screwed connections that pose a risk to life and health if they fail. This is also stated in the DIN 25201 standard initiated by the railroads.

Initial situation

The auxiliary power converter for rail vehicles: SMARTconverter 3

SMARTconverter 3 is a standardized on-board converter for rail vehicles. This third generation of SMARTconverter is a consistent further development and sets standards. The auxiliary power converter was designed as a platform device for rail vehicles such as underground and suburban trains, streetcars and regional multiple units. Thus, SMARTconverter 3 offers the primary system characteristics such as minimum weight and high efficiency. Developed for worldwide applicability, the third product generation meets all relevant European standards and also takes into account specific requirements of important growth regions.

Due to its modular design, a SMARTconverter can be delivered in underfloor containers, roof-mounted systems and "open frame" systems, always with an eye on the customer's weight and space requirements. A device that meets the highest has demands – and relies on Nord-Lock®.

Fasteners in on-board converters — **The SMARTconverter 3** for railway vehicles

Solution

Nord-Lock® wedge‑locking washers

In the case of components used for railroads, it is immensely important to create reliable and resilient connections. Appropriate measures must be taken in the case of screwed connections that pose a risk to life and health if they fail. This is also stated in the DIN 25201 standard initiated by the railroads. Nord-Lock® wedge-locking washers have a long tradition in railroads when it comes to maintaining the preload force, despite vibrations and dynamic transverse forces. Dinghan SMART relies on Nord-Lock® to ensure that the connections on and in the SMARTconverters can withstand the loads and thus generate correspondingly secure fastened connections.

Installation example of Nord-Lock wedge washer — **The solution:** Nord-Lock® wedge-locking washers

Results

Wedge‑locking technology

Nord-Lock® wedge-locking technology complies with DIN 25201 and secures fastened joints by clamping force instead of friction. The wedge-locking washers have wedge surfaces on the inside and radial ribs on the outside. The angle of the wedge surfaces between Nord-Lock® washers is greater than the lead angle of the thread. In addition, the radial ribs ensure a positive fit with the mating material. The bonded washers come in pairs and are used so that the wedge surfaces lie on top of each other. The Nord-Lock® range includes the original washers, SC washers for steel construction, wheel lock nuts and customer-specific solutions.