Applying the composite material "efWING" to rolling stock bogies

Ever lighter rolling stock is needed to reduce CO2 emissions and running costs.
Rolling stock roughly consists of a car body and a bogie. Car bodies have became significantly lighter by the adoption of aluminum and other light alloys, while bogies have been made only slightly lighter by streamlining some elements.
KHI leads the world through its adoption of both strong and light carbon-fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) to make the main bogie frame structure that can also serve as a suspension system. In this manner, we have significantly reduced the bogie weight.
In order to commercialize this, we are have adopted technology for manufacturing CFRP components that was used for the production of aircraft with composite fuselages. In addition, we are developing an inspection and monitoring technology for maintaining the CFRP's unique endurance against damage and to ensure stable railway travel with the new bogie structure.

* efWING : environmentally friendly Weight-Saving Innovative New Generation Truck

The next-generation bogie for rolling stock "efWING"

CFRP bogie frame, which also assists the suspension