Development and implementation of a spring-steel wire-rod process for rail fastenings and shock-absorber springs

Abstract

This paper describes the development and implementation of a process for producing wire rod from 38Si7 spring steel in accordance with DIN EN 10089. The wire rod is intended for manufacturing rail clips used in rail fastenings. The process was tailored to customer specifications to achieve the required product quality and properties. The study established the reheating schedule and the rolling and cooling conditions for 38Si7 wire-rod production. The reported results provide process-level novelty for producing spring-steel wire rod and include efficient conditions for reheating, rolling, two-stage cooling, as well as measures for transportation and storage.