Corrosion Threatens LHB Train Bogies, Railway Board Orders Safety Inspections
Senior railway engineers have flagged severe corrosion in LHB coach bogies, prompting the Railway Board to mandate special safety checks.
India's shift to German-designed LHB coaches has been marred by unexpected corrosion on bogie components, even though the coaches employ anti-rust alloys. At a recent PCMEs meeting, senior engineers highlighted the problem and asked the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai, Rail Coach Factory in Kapurthala and Modern Coach Factory in Rae Bareli to diagnose the cause. The Railway Board cited an Eastern Railway report that linked leaks from bio-toilets, aggressive cleaning chemicals, damaged vinyl wraps and salty coastal air to the deterioration.
It has now ordered every railway zone to scrutinise underframe and lavatory sections during scheduled maintenance, clear drainage passages, avoid harsh chemicals, and improve drying procedures. The board also called for upgrades to existing corrosion-protection systems to safeguard passenger safety and reduce maintenance costs.
