Based on past experiences where over 50% of mechanical failures on Toronto Transit subway rail vehicles were related to misapplication of fasteners, this presentation is an overview of training currently provided to rail mechanics. Beginning with an explanation on application of fasteners emphasizing terminology, preload, elastic elongation and friction/lubricant, it follows with a review of experiences over the past 20 years and the resultant current best practices with respect to control of quality, hardened washers, mechanical top locknuts, lubricated installations, fatigue failures, etc. The presentation includes demonstrations using a Skidmore Wilhelm bolt tensioning machine that dramatically shows effect of lubricant on preload.
As a graduate of McGill University and member of PEO with over 40 years of engineering experience, Bob has been employed for over 25 years as the Manager of Maintenance Engineering in Rail Cars & Shops Department of the Toronto Transit Commission. This position involves resolving problems on revenue and maintenance subway vehicles where engineered solutions and fleet modifications are required. In addition, over 20 different types of specialized diesel and electric powered subway maintenance vehicles have been designed and developed. Previously, he was employed with Massey Ferguson in Toronto as a design, staff and project engineer on self-propelled harvesting machines. His experience has shown that incorrect and misapplied fasteners are often found to be the root cause of equipment failures. His presentation on “Practical Application of Fasteners” provides an overview of training provided to subway vehicle maintenance staff at TTC.
