CHAOS Report #2 - Amtrak's Broken Wheels - March 16, 2007

Mechanical Liaison Officer's report by: Paul L. DeVerter II

If you think flat plate, tread-braked, rim-stamped wheels on our passenger cars are the only ones with problems, then you need to look at these two reports and the photos of the troubles Amtrak had in January 2007. Apparently, no amount of inspection or care will reveal all the problems of mechanical devices. The stories speak for themselves. Amazingly, no one was hurt in either incident. 

First Broken Wheel – On January 10, 2007, the Cardinal (Tr. 51) was blocked by a derailment, and turned around to go back to Washington.  The train was moving at 78 MPH when the crew heard a loud slamming noise.  A normal stop was made, and inspection revealed a broken wheel on the 2nd locomotive. The missing piece was approximately 24” long and 15” deep. Amazingly enough, no wheels were derailed. And the wheel had just been replaced and was brand new.

Second Broken Wheel – On approximately January 20, 2007 the Palmetto (Tr. 90) was traveling at track speed near Davis interlocking, when one wheel on the 5th car failed. The broken off piece came up through the floor of the coach, and would have done major damage if the car had been occupied.  Fortunately, it was not. The report is that the broken piece was welded back on so the car could be moved to Bear for repairs.

End of Report