Franz Kaminski Gruppe

Insights at FRANZ KAMINSKI WAGGONBAU – Part 5: Wheel Bearing Coating

WINAPPEAL-Sofiane — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 09:00:51 +0000

Protection that preserves quality for the long term.

After the wheel bearings have been technically refurbished and inspected, another important step in the maintenance process follows: the coating. It reliably protects the components from corrosion, environmental influences, and mechanical stress during daily railway operation.

Here as well, precision determines quality – because only a properly prepared surface and a professionally applied coating ensure that the refurbished components remain protected for the long term.

✅ Surface preparation
Before coating, the wheel bearings are carefully inspected and prepared. Clean and properly treated surfaces are essential to ensure optimal adhesion of the coating.

✅ Professional coating
The coating is applied using specially coordinated coating systems designed for the demanding conditions of railway operations, ensuring long-lasting corrosion protection.

✅ Uniform coating thickness
Experienced specialists ensure a precise and even application of the coating layer – a key factor for both protection and durability.

✅ Inspection & documentation
As in all maintenance processes, this step is also carefully inspected and documented. This ensures that the quality of every component remains fully traceable.

What makes this step particularly important?

It ensures that precisely refurbished components remain permanently protected – allowing them to perform their function reliably over the long term.

🎥 Part 5 of our series #KaminskiInsights shows how professional coating transforms refurbished wheel bearings into permanently protected components.

➡️ Part 6 will follow soon – with insights into the warehouse.

Der Beitrag Insights at FRANZ KAMINSKI WAGGONBAU – Part 5: Wheel Bearing Coating erschien zuerst auf Franz Kaminski Gruppe.

Insights at FRANZ KAMINSKI WAGGONBAU – Part 4: Wheel Bearing Refurbishment

WINAPPEAL — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 19:45:28 +0000

Where everything turns – and precision makes the difference.

The refurbishment of wheel bearings is one of the most sensitive stages in rail-vehicle maintenance.
It is where technology, experience, and quality awareness must work in perfect harmony – because only a precisely refurbished bearing ensures smooth running, efficiency, and operational safety.

Our specialists combine hands-on expertise with modern testing technology, applying methods that make quality measurable.

Disassembly & Initial Inspection: Every wheel bearing is completely dismantled, cleaned, and visually inspected. At this stage we use our PAUT system (Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing) to examine each component non-destructively for material defects, cracks, and structural irregularities – identifying potential weaknesses before they can occur in service.
Cleaning & Measurement: Specialized cleaning and measuring techniques detect even the smallest deviations. Each part is precisely measured and prepared for further processing.
Component Reconditioning: Inner and outer rings as well as rolling elements are refurbished or replaced as required, always according to manufacturer-specified tolerances.
Assembly & Lubrication: After successful testing, reassembly is carried out using defined lubricants and controlled preload – documented, verified, and approved.
Quality with System: Every step is fully documented, ensuring traceability, safety, and repeatable quality – for components that run smoothly in the long term.

What makes this area special?

It unites technology, experience, and responsibility – because a perfectly running wheel bearing isn’t a small thing, it’s safety in motion.

Part 4 of our #KaminskiInsights series reveals how precision, system understanding, and high-tech testing go hand in hand – until every bearing runs true again.

Der Beitrag Insights at FRANZ KAMINSKI WAGGONBAU – Part 4: Wheel Bearing Refurbishment erschien zuerst auf Franz Kaminski Gruppe.

Insights at FRANZ KAMINSKI WAGGONBAU – Part 3: Blasting Hall

WINAPPEAL — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 13:25:11 +0000

Where the old disappears – and the new becomes visible.

The blasting hall is far more than just a preparatory step.
It lays the foundation for precise maintenance, reliable testing – and the optimal further processing of components.

With trained eyes, state-of-the-art technology and the right blasting media, we create what every component deserves: a clean new beginning.

Powerful & versatile: Our blasting facility is designed for large components such as bogies, wheelsets or frame elements – using variable blasting techniques to achieve the highest surface quality.
Glass bead blasting – for fine precision: With gentle blasting pressure, we prepare components with sensitive geometries – for a uniform, metallic-clean surface with minimal roughness.
Technically precise, safe in execution: Modern filtration and extraction systems ensure low-dust conditions – for consistently high quality and maximum occupational safety. Pickling & passivation – the final protection: Chemical surface treatments ensure corrosion resistance and long-term functionality – especially for stainless steel and specialized components.
Perfectly prepared for the next step: Blasting, cleaning and chemical treatment provide the ideal basis for measurement, repair, coating and painting.

What makes this area special?

It combines force with control – ensuring the quality of maintenance before any repairs even begin.

Part 3 of our Insights series shows what happens when expertise, technology and material knowledge come together – precise, considered and indispensable.

Der Beitrag Insights at FRANZ KAMINSKI WAGGONBAU – Part 3: Blasting Hall erschien zuerst auf Franz Kaminski Gruppe.

Insights at FRANZ KAMINSKI WAGGONBAU – Part 2: Cleaning Hall

WINAPPEAL — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 13:02:20 +0000

Where responsibility begins – with every drop and every particle.

The cleaning hall is more than just an intermediate step. This is where active environmental protection begins, where occupational safety reaches the highest level – and where the foundation for flawless maintenance is laid.

With the growing variety of transported goods, specialized processes are required – uncompromising in quality, safety and sustainability.

Technologically advanced, environmentally sound & precise: Our cleaning line is designed for tank wagons carrying mineral oil, chemicals, pressurized gases and bulk powders – using optimized processes that reliably meet legal limits for wastewater and emissions.
Wide cleaning spectrum: From acids and alkalis to alcohols, ketones, sulfur and fuels – we remove and dispose of even demanding chemical substances reliably, safely and in an environmentally friendly manner.
Pressure gas wagons? No problem: With special relaxation and degassing procedures, we also clean complex substances such as propane, butane, butadiene and technical gases.
Powder residue cleaning: Our modern facility allows for professional cleaning of brown coal dust, lime, cement and more.
More than just interior cleaning: We also offer exterior and underframe cleaning, internal inspections in accordance with UIP, and surface treatments.

What makes this area special?

It is highly specialized, safety-relevant – and a showcase for sustainable, future-oriented work in wagon maintenance.
Those who work here ensure more than just cleanliness – they protect people, materials and the environment.

Part 2 of our series #KaminskiInsights highlights the full expertise behind the word “cleaning” – impressive, responsible and hands-on.

Der Beitrag Insights at FRANZ KAMINSKI WAGGONBAU – Part 2: Cleaning Hall erschien zuerst auf Franz Kaminski Gruppe.

Insights at FRANZ KAMINSKI WAGGONBAU – Part 1: Order Processing & Spare Parts Management

WINAPPEAL — Mon, 05 May 2025 09:27:33 +0000

Where technical precision meets organizational excellence.

In our order processing and spare parts management, we don’t simply handle orders. This is where structure takes shape. This is where every job begins. This is where the efficiency and economic viability of operations are determined.

The demands in this area are high – and for good reason:

From the first customer contact to execution, every order starts with a plan that considers both the technical implementation and material logistics. Whether maintenance, conversion, or spare parts supply – the course is set here.
Communication with impact: Our teams connect customers, workshop, suppliers, and internal departments. They create clarity, coordinate workflows, and ensure deadlines are met.
Precision down to the last detail: From the correct spare part to the optimal time window – in this area, not only experience counts but also a forward-thinking understanding of the entire railcar maintenance system.

What makes this role so special?

It is the quiet backbone of our operations – complex, coordinating, and indispensable. Those who work here master systems and understand processes. And those who take on responsibility here lay the foundation for everything that follows.

In Part 1 of our new series Kaminski Insights, we take a look into this often underestimated but crucial area – clear, direct, and close to practice.

Der Beitrag Insights at FRANZ KAMINSKI WAGGONBAU – Part 1: Order Processing & Spare Parts Management erschien zuerst auf Franz Kaminski Gruppe.

Innovation in Maintenance: High-end Ultrasonic Testing

WINAPPEAL — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 11:34:24 +0000

Franz Kaminski Waggonbau GmbH relies on cutting-edge technologies to ensure the highest safety standards in the maintenance of freight wagons. A crucial tool in this is PAUT (Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing) – an advanced, non-destructive testing method that reliably guarantees the flawlessness of railway components.

🔍 Advantages of the PAUT system:

↗️ Higher accuracy in detecting even the smallest inconsistencies in weld seams, wheelset axles, wheels, and other safety-critical components.
↗️ Faster testing processes, as larger areas can be scanned in less time.
↗️ Support for inspectors through automated and reproducible procedures.

This technology helps us maximize the safety of freight wagons and minimize downtime – an essential contribution to efficiency and reliability in rail transport. 🚆🔝

Der Beitrag Innovation in Maintenance: High-end Ultrasonic Testing erschien zuerst auf Franz Kaminski Gruppe.

Digitalization of the Railways: Together into the Future!

WINAPPEAL — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 11:00:00 +0000

The digitalization of the railways is progressing in all areas. In 2010, Franz Kaminski Waggonbau GmbH was one of the companies that brought the software Comap from the company Sternico onto the tracks as a further development towards a business solution for all participants in rail transport. From this delicate plant, RAILDEX has now grown.

We began the groundwork for the implementation of data exchange (VPI08) together with many market participants over 10 years ago. Therefore, we are very pleased that we can now collaborate on the “deeper” automation of business processes.

RAILDEX e.V. is more than a declaration of intent to initiate further steps in digitalization. Rather, RAILDEX enables the entire railway industry to network—very similar to what social media platforms do. This networking is crucial and must be driven forward by companies in all market areas of the rail sector.

We are convinced that RAILDEX e.V. is an excellent initiative to jointly find solutions that contribute to the economic success of the railway industry. 🚆

Become part of this exciting journey and help shape the future of the railways with us!

Der Beitrag Digitalization of the Railways: Together into the Future! erschien zuerst auf Franz Kaminski Gruppe.

50 Years of Commitment and Innovation – Hartmut Battmer Celebrates Anniversary!

WINAPPEAL — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 10:57:00 +0000

We are proud to honor Hartmut Battmer today, who has been a part of Franz Kaminski GmbH for an incredible 50 years. 🚂 Born on December 23, 1957, Mr. Battmer began his impressive career with us as an apprentice locksmith on April 1, 1974.

His expertise in the construction of freight and tank wagons has significantly influenced the quality and efficiency of our production. Through his further training in damage assessment and quality assurance, he has made important contributions to our standards over the years.

🛠️ In 2000, he took over the technical management of our Polish subsidiary and also contributed decisively to the success of our Hungarian subsidiary in 2005. His tireless dedication and loyalty to the company have repeatedly proven how valuable he is to our team.

We thank Mr. Battmer for his 50 years of loyalty and excellent collaboration and look forward to having him continue to be part of our team for as long as he wishes to work with us.

🌟 Hartmut, thank you for everything, and stay healthy!

Der Beitrag 50 Years of Commitment and Innovation – Hartmut Battmer Celebrates Anniversary! erschien zuerst auf Franz Kaminski Gruppe.

Franz Kaminski Waggonbau GmbH Introduces State-of-the-Art NDT Technology

WINAPPEAL — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 10:56:00 +0000

By implementing the Wheel Set Scan System (WS3), a semi-automatic wheelset inspection system based on ultrasonic phased array technology, future wheelset inspections will become more efficient, and defect detection capability will be further enhanced.

The application of the WS3 in rail transport offers various advantages.

Thus, it can …

… increase both efficiency and productivity by significantly reducing the inspection times of wheelsets compared to conventional methods.
… continuously monitor all probes through coupling control. Before each inspection, the probe emits ultrasound to the opposite area of the wheel rim or axle. This results in a quantitative assessment of the probe condition during each inspection process and enables monitoring of the material quality of the axle and wheel rim.
… enhance the Probability of Detection (POD) using highly precise ultrasonic phased array technology (PAUT). This advanced ultrasonic testing method uses electronic control of phase elements, allowing precise focusing and steering of ultrasonic waves. Additionally, a thin, defined water gap is maintained between the probe and the component surface—this prevents signal fluctuations during probe movement, enables more reliable testing through improved signal quality, and provides a better signal-to-noise ratio. The result: improved defect detection and faster inspection of wheelsets.
… ensure complete and precise localization of inspection data. This is based on software-supported pre-processing and post-processing. For example, optimal incidence angles and probe positions are determined during inspection preparation. In post-processing, data evaluation is carried out on a PC in various display formats.
… ultimately simplify the reporting process by automating it.

The continuous development of the system will undoubtedly lead to even more efficient and reliable inspection of wheelsets, with far-reaching effects on the safety and performance of rail transport.

Der Beitrag Franz Kaminski Waggonbau GmbH Introduces State-of-the-Art NDT Technology erschien zuerst auf Franz Kaminski Gruppe.

Measuring Instruments in the Railway Industry

WINAPPEAL — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 10:51:00 +0000

The railway industry is a crucial component of the modern transportation system and plays a decisive role in ensuring mobility and sustainability. Precise measuring instruments are of great importance in guaranteeing the performance, efficiency, and safety of rail transport.

Why Measuring Instruments are So Important in the Railway Industry

The rail transport sector faces numerous challenges, including maximizing uptime, reducing failures, and ensuring the safety of passengers and cargo. Precise measuring instruments are an indispensable tool to meet these challenges and are essential for various reasons:

Maintenance / Servicing: Railway vehicles and infrastructure require regular maintenance to ensure they operate safely and reliably. Measuring instruments are used to monitor wear and performance of components and to carry out timely maintenance work.
Efficiency: Through precise measurements, operators can optimize energy consumption, minimize wear, and increase throughput on the rails.
Quality Control: In the manufacturing and maintenance of railway vehicles, accurate measurements are crucial to ensure all components meet quality standards.
Safety: Measuring instruments and measurement procedures on railway vehicles are essential to minimize potential risks and guarantee the safety of passengers, personnel, and cargo.

Innovation and Technological Progress

The railway sector is an area constantly shaped by innovation and technological advancement. We consider ourselves a modern traditional company and have stood for innovation and progress for more than 100 years. As a leading company in spare parts management for railway needs, we also develop and distribute solid and durable measuring instruments for precise measurement of wheelsets and bogies.

You can find measuring instruments, bogies, stickers, seals, and much more here: 👉 www.railcarparts24.com

Conclusion: Measuring instruments are the backbone of the railway industry, ensuring precision and safety, and play a key role in increasing efficiency and technological progress in this important sector. Through the continuous development of measuring instruments, the railway industry will continue to be able to meet the challenges of the modern world while ensuring the safety and satisfaction of passengers as well as the reliable transport of goods.

We are proud to be part of this positive development. For further information and detailed advice on the various measuring instruments, please contact our sales department.

📨 technik@kaminski-hameln.de
📲 +49 5151 4008-957

Der Beitrag Measuring Instruments in the Railway Industry erschien zuerst auf Franz Kaminski Gruppe.