Track Measurement and Analysis
Rail ultrasonic testing
Ultrasonic rail testing is a full-track inspection solution that uses high-pitched waves to scan rails and identify internal flaws in need of repair. Pandrol teams are experts in the application of ultrasonic rail inspection, and our certified inspectors can provide comprehensive training tailored to your infrastructure, setting, and use case.
Ultrasonic Rail Testing product overview
Ultrasonic rail testing is a full-track inspection solution that uses high-pitched waves to scan rails and identify internal flaws in need of repair. Pandrol teams are experts in the application of ultrasonic rail inspection, and our certified inspectors can provide comprehensive training tailored to your infrastructure, setting, and use case.
Our range of ultrasonic equipment includes both manual and motorised inspection tools, which can be operated at up to 20 km per hour. Learn more about our equipment, processes, and training on this page.
Ultrasonic rail testing companies have a responsibility to provide reliable equipment, fully-trained operators, and optimal results. Trust Pandrol’s track record for safety, accuracy, and upholding industry-leading standards.
- Prevent failures and accidents – reduce the risk of non-detection
- Check small or large sections of rail – choose the equipment to suit your project
- Rely on ultrasonic for comprehensive testing – check rails vertically and from many other angles for a full picture
Downloads
Walking stick
- Anti-derailment wheel
- Height-adjustable telescopic handle
- Single man operation
- Simple connection to UT flaw detector
- Inspects all track components, including rail, welds, switches, crossing, and insulated joints
- Characterisation of defects after detection passage
Watch the video to see the Pandrol ultrasonic testing walking stick in action.
Ultrasonic trolley
- Capable of ultrasonic inspection of the two parallel rails simultaneously
- On the track and ready to go in less than 5 mins
- 23kg lightweight machinery for single-man operation
- Operation speeds up to 5kmph
- Suitable for rail temperatures from -10 to 55°C
- Adaptable to rail gauges from 1000 to 1674mm
- Multiangle detection of rail and weld defects
- Officially approved by French railways
- A-scan display
- Dead man’s breaking system
- Available with smart capabilities including B-scan display, encoder, recording and GPS localisation
Watch the video to see the Pandrol ultrasonic rail testing trolley in action.
Ultrasonic rail testing explained
Ultrasonic testing of railway tracks can produce a fully exhaustive report of the location, characteristics, and urgency of any defects detected. The method is ideal for taking dimensional and thickness measurements, characterising material and detecting damage. It is also sometimes referred to as ‘non-destructive testing’ thanks to its non-invasive nature.
The ultrasonic test procedure operates via a pulse-echo technique. This describes the process of passing short ultrasonic pulses from the equipment into the component, where they are then reflected by obstacles. The reflected pulses are then displayed on the screen for reading by the operator. Water or oil is applied to the probe to ensure no air interrupts the pulses, which could impact results.
This comprehensive process can be carried out on both rails and welds. Testing the head, web, and foot to provide a detailed picture of weld health allows engineers to confirm that rail welds meet the specifications set out by the rail network for quality and safety.
