Research and Development Activities and Future Outlook in Materials Technology

Abstract

Materials used in the railway system are required to maintain a designated performance over a predetermined period of time. Management of changes in these materials over time is therefore very important. Our current research focuses mainly on materials with a long serviceable life such as concrete and steel structures, and friction members such as rails, wheels, bearings, brake shoes, contact wires, and pantograph contact strips. We are also developing new materials or new technologies for the railway system. This paper outlines recent research and development activities in and the future outlook for materials technology.