A new meaning to structural integrity
Wuhan Optics Valley Tram - Composite Structure
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Year.
2015 - 2019
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Sector.
Public transportation
Rolling stock
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Services.
Project management
Feasibility analysis
Project budgeting
Structural engineering
Materials selection
FEA simulation and analysis
Production support
Testing and commissioning
Challenge.
As one tram in a fleet of 100, the composite tram required Fordyno engineer it to appear identical to the steel trams that comprise the remainder of the fleet, with the exception of exposed carbon detailing along each side of the composite tram.
This constraint introduced several challenges to overcome, including retaining all equipment interfaces and access while completely changing the structural concept.
Approach
Detailed bid development work was conducted in collaboration with CRC Changchun to bring together a winning proposal resulting in a winning bid for the prominent rolling stock manufacturer.
Following the winning bid Fordyno’s industrial design team worked closely with CRC Changchun’s internal design team to develop several concepts embodying the Fuxing philosophy.
Following this the preferred design was taken in to detailed design to ensure technical and engineering compliance whilst retaining the design intent established with the concept design phase.
Benefits.
The composite tram delivers substantial benefits to the customer including:
* Reduced weight that requires less energy to operate and increases the range of the tram when operated wirelessly.
* Improved fatigue life compared to steel tram structures.
* Corrosion resistance.
* Thermal and acoustic insulation integrated into the structure improving passenger comfort.
In service.
CRRC revealed the composite tram to the world during the Fourth China (Changchun) Rail Transit Expo in Changchun on September 7, 2018.
As the first fully composite rail vehicle to enter service, the tram designed by Fordyno represents a major milestone in the adoption of structural composite materials for the rail industry.