Improving the damage resistance of tramline crossings through laser cladding

Tram and light rail systems are vital to urban transportation, providing efficient and eco-friendly transit for city commuters. Flange tip lift crossings are used in tramlines to enhance passenger comfort, but their unique design leads to rapid rail deterioration, including wear and rolling contact fatigue. This thesis explores the application of laser cladding, an advanced surface engineering process, to improve the durability of these crossings. By enhancing resistance to wear and rolling contact fatigue, laser cladding significantly extends the service life of tramline crossings, offering a promising solution for more reliable and sustainable urban transit networks.