The Situation
A frequent task undertaken by engineers at a major train maintenance depot, is the maintenance of brake actuators of rolling stock. The brake actuators form a critical part of the S stock friction braking system, used both at low speed and for emergency braking. Torque was being applied to the bolts attaching the brake shoe to the actuator using a model 100 torque wrench and a manual torque multiplier. To ensure correct torque is achieved, input torque needed to be calculated to the correct multiplication ratio, resulting in a margin for error. Holding both of these tools while carrying out such an importance maintenance task was also proving time consuming and uncomfortable for operators.
The Solution
The dedicated HAYLEY DEXIS | Rail team were made aware of the difficulties faced by engineers tasked with this job, and Immediately spoke to their contact at Norbar. After learning more about the problem, a Norbar EvoTorque® battery tool compact (EBT-C) was introduced as the ideal solution. The Norbar EBT-C is a compact, battery-operated torque tool with patented transducer control and ‘intelligent joint-sensing’ technology for high accuracy and repeatability. Operator safety is built into the EBT-C as standard, with a ‘safe-to-start’ button helping to ensure hands are safely away from any pinch points before the tool is activated, and a lightweight and ergonomic design enabling comfortable use for repeated and frequent use.
"THE NORBAR EBT-C HAS OPTIMISED A CRITICAL MAINTENANCE TASK CARRIED OUT FREQUENTLY BY ENGINEERS."
The Result
Torque accuracy has been improved by switching to the EBT-C, crucial in maintaining such a safety-critical part of a trains’ braking system. The EBT-C is far more durable than the previous tool, offering a longer active time and expected lifespan thanks to its patented cooling system. Less time is now also required to achieve the desired torque. This has helped to boost productivity and efficiency at the depot. Operator comfort has also been improved since the Norbar EBT-C has been in-use, thanks to its compact and ergonomic design.