LHB coaches face corrosion concern: Railway Board

The Railway Board has expressed concern over significant corrosion in the bogies of Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) passenger coaches, despite the use of resistant materials and enhanced cleaning procedures. Senior engineers presented this issue at a recent meeting, urging three major coach manufacturers to investigate and propose solutions.

The concern stems from the potential safety risks and increased maintenance needs that corrosion can cause. Railway officials have called for heightened attention to maintain both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned LHB coaches, as corrosion in their components could lead to safety hazards and higher upkeep costs. The issue has prompted the Railway Board to instruct zones to inspect corrosion-prone parts during routine maintenance.

A March report by Eastern Railway highlighted age and component-wise analyses of corrosion in LHB AC and non-AC coaches, with toilet areas identified as a major contributor to corrosion. Water seeping through lavatory flooring or leaking pipes can expose metal parts to corrosive substances. Additionally, cleaning methods, dents on steel surfaces, and vinyl advertisement wrappers can also contribute to corrosion.

Coaches running in coastal regions face an added challenge due to saline air exposure, which can speed up corrosion. Railway zones have been advised to avoid harsh chemicals and high-salinity water during coach cleaning, and to ensure that drain holes and passages remain unblocked. The Railway Ministry has directed all railway zones to review critical safety areas and implement the recommended precautionary measures during scheduled maintenance.