Vesconite Hilube bushings continue to demonstrate their reliability on the inspection doors of the open-hopper bulk wagons of a UK-based freight operator. The operator, seeking a durable and low-maintenance solution, initially installed the no-swell wear-resistant bushings in November 2023 as part of a test on one set of wagon doors. Following successful trials, the company proceeded with a full installation during routine wagon refurbishments.

The bushings have been performing well, ensuring the wagon doors open and close smoothly. With the doors primarily used for inspection purposes rather than frequent operation, the bushings have experienced minimal wear. To date, no replacements have been necessary, and their continued performance suggests they will remain maintenance-free for years to come.

The freight operator has over 2,500 wagons, including 142 open-hopper bulk wagons. Each wagon has two doors, totalling 600 pins with three bushings each. Critical for routine maintenance checks, these inspection doors had become a persistent challenge due to operational inefficiencies and safety concerns.

The original bushings, made from a porous bronze impregnated with oil, required regular greasing due to the oil seeping out over time. With wagons sent to the depot for maintenance only once a year, this requirement proved impractical, resulting in sticking doors, delayed servicing, and even worker injuries. Nylon bushings were evaluated as an alternative but quickly dismissed due to their tendency to swell and lose compressive strength in humid environments, which compromised reliability and underscored the need for a low-maintenance, dependable option.

Vesconite Hilube bushings were selected as a replacement. Unlike bronze bushings, which depended on regular greasing and degraded over time, or nylon bushings, which swelled under exposure, Vesconite Hilube bushings offered inherent lubrication, exceptional wear resistance, and no swelling, eliminating frequent maintenance. This solution not only tackled the operational and safety challenges but also supported the operator’s commitment to sustainability with its long-lasting, upkeep-free performance.