Overview of Thermit Welding Process for Railway Applications: A Mixture of Iron Oxide and Aluminium Powder Joining Techniques

Authors

  • Imoh Ime Ekanem Department of Mechanical Engineering Technology, Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, Ikot Ekpene, Nigeria.
  • Aniekan Essienubong Ikpe Department of Mechanical Engineering Technology, Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, Ikot Ekpene, Nigeria.
  • Ndifreke Etebom Itiat Department of Mechanical Engineering Technology, Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, Ikot Ekpene, Nigeria.

Keywords:

Thermit welding, railway applications, iron oxide, aluminium powder

Abstract

The welding of rails and other metal components in railway applications is critical for maintaining the structural integrity and safety of the infrastructure. Traditional welding methods may not always provide the desired strength and durability required for withstanding heavy loads and harsh environmental conditions. Thermit welding offers a reliable and efficient alternative that can withstand heavy loads and harsh environmental conditions when joining rails and metal components in railway applications. However, the effectiveness of Thermit welding with a mixture of iron oxide and aluminium powder needs to be evaluated to ensure its suitability for use in railway maintenance and construction projects. The research methodology for this study includes a comprehensive literature review to assess the performance of Thermit welding with a mixture of iron oxide and aluminium powder. The literature review included an overview of critical parameters, environmental sustainability, principles and applications of Thermit welding in railway engineering. The findings of the study indicated that Thermit welding with a mixture of iron oxide and aluminium powder produces strong and durable welds that meet the requirements of railway applications. The welds exhibit good mechanical properties, such as high tensile strength, ductility, and resistance to fatigue and corrosion. The performance of Thermit welding with iron oxide and aluminium powder is comparable to or better than other welding methods used in railway applications. These findings revealed the environmental sustainability of thermit welding in railway infrastructure compared to traditional welding methods, such as arc welding, due to its lower energy consumption and reduced emissions.   Based on the findings of this study, evaluation of the long-term durability and reliability of Thermit welding with iron oxide and aluminium powder under various environmental conditions is recommended.

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Published

2024-11-10

How to Cite

Overview of Thermit Welding Process for Railway Applications: A Mixture of Iron Oxide and Aluminium Powder Joining Techniques. (2024). Journal of Materials and Manufacturing Technology, 1(1), 66-79. https://jmmt.reapress.com/journal/article/view/28