Analysis and selection of materials for the design of lightweight railway vehicles

Railway vehicle manufacturers are focusing nowadays on building lighter vehicles, which are more environmental- and track-friendly. The article presents a methodology that was developed and is being proposed for the assessment and selection of materials for lightweight railway vehicles. The analysis methodology consists of a two level stages that consider different categories of key criteria. Example of analyses that were carried out on the basis of some of the most relevant criteria are presented along with specific recommendations regarding the potential use of various classes of materials in different applications, and subsequent conclusions. (paper)