Determining Wheel and Wheelset Dimensions

Have you ever wondered why wheels must be turned with a taper? And how much taper is enough? Why do the flanges also have tapers? Why do the flanges carry the weight of the load through frogs? These and other questions are answered in the white paper, "Determining Wheel and Wheelset Dimensions", written by IBLS member Bill Donovan. This is a must-read for for all modelers who design, build or inspect wheels.

Abstract:


 * In order to allow inter-operation of equipment on multiple tracks a series of standard dimensions have been developed that apply to the design, production, and inspection of wheels and wheelsets (two wheels and an axle). The information that follows discusses some of the reasons for certain dimensions and provides guidance as to the selection of specific values for all required dimensions.

"Determining Wheel and Wheelset Dimensions" (PDF)