The Azonik Bronze-Graphite Axle Grounding Disk is an engineered solution for the safe transfer of return current in rail fleets. By utilizing a robust bronze housing and an advanced graphite layer, this product provides unparalleled mechanical stability alongside excellent electrical conductivity. With an electrical resistance of less than 20 milliohms, this disk protects expensive bogie bearings from electrical damage and guarantees an operational lifespan of up to 2,000,000 kilometers.
Engineering of the Bronze-Graphite Structure
In modern rail systems, axle grounding disks must not only be good conductors but must also withstand the intense mechanical forces resulting from bogie movement. Unlike all-graphite disks, the Azonik bronze-graphite disk significantly increases structural integrity by utilizing a bronze holder. The graphite section, which is exposed to direct wear, uses a special formulation to simultaneously facilitate electrical current flow and minimize friction at contact surfaces.
Why does this product prevent damage to bearings?
Return currents in trains (after being consumed in the traction system or APS) must be discharged to the rails through the wheels. In the absence of a standard grounding path, this current passes through alternative paths such as sensitive bogie bearings, which causes electrolysis and premature failure of the rolling elements.
This component acts as a parallel path with very low resistance, absorbing all return currents before they enter the bearings and transferring them to the wheels. This process has three important results:
This disk is an ideal choice for metro and urban train operators seeking to increase efficiency and reduce long-term maintenance costs.
