System for diagnosis of rolling profiles of the railway vehicles

•A computerized system for monitoring and diagnosis (Profilograph) is presented.•The S78 and UIC-ORE types of profiles were tested.•Main parameters of a wear profile were measured and diagnosed: Sh, Sd and qR.•Diagnosis gave technical information on corrective actions to be taken.•Profilograph system can be adapted to scan multiple profiles used in industry.

A computerized system for monitoring and diagnosis (Profilograph  ), which is capable to predict the wheel profile evolution, was developed. The S78 and UIC-ORE types of profiles were tested, for which the wear parameters are monitored. The main parameters that characterize the wear profiles were measured and analyzed: ShSh—flange height, SdSd—flange thickness and qRqR—flange slope quota. The tests were executed on the basis of UIC norms and regulations. The diagnosis, gives technical information about the wheel profile, based on which, the following corrective mechanical actions should be taken: re-profiling, invalidation or parts replacement (in case of bandage wheel profile).