The Effect of Deformation on Mechanical Properties and Shakedown on Railroad Wheels Available to Purchase

Plastic deformations alter the mechanical properties of many metals and alloys. Class C and Class D wheel steels such as are used in North American freight car service are particularly affected by plastic deformations occurring during rolling contact between the wheel tread and rail head. This investigation determines the effect plastic deformations have on the mechanical properties of Class C and D wheel steels and how those changes could relate to shakedown theory. The effect of temperature is also discussed.