Talgo locomotives equipped with SKF bearing units
SKF has developed a new bearing solution for high-speed trains that enables a variable gauge system – i.e., variable width between tracks. The bearing unit has been delivered to the locomotive prototype of the Spanish high-speed train manufactured by Talgo. This is the first locomotive for high- speed trains equipped with a variable gauge system.
SKF has developed a new bearing solution for high-speed trains that enables a variable gauge system – i.e., variable width between tracks. The bearing unit has been delivered to the locomotive prototype of the Spanish high-speed train manufactured by Talgo. This is the first locomotive for high- speed trains equipped with a variable gauge system.
Traditional railway vehicles operate with axles that support the wheels and have bearing units on each axle end. The variable gauge system needs wheels that can be adjusted in different positions along the axles and therefore have to be supported individually by the bearing units. Each wheel requires two bearing units.
The Talgo tilting trains are currently operating in 13 different countries with different gauges and propulsion systems. The new locomotive is able to operate at a maximum speed of 260 km/h.
SKF has received an order of compact tapered roller bearing units for further 44 locomotives with an option to supply an additional 46. The bearing units will be manufactured in Italy.
