Optimization of the state of residual stresses in treated high resistance rails

The improvement in the quality of rolled products such as rails requires taking simultaneously into account phenomena of thermal, metallurgical and mechanical origin. The development of a finite elements code (REFPROF), taking into account the coupling between these three types of phenomena, has allowed us to better describe the influence of phase transformations on the behaviour and the mechanical properties of the product. Using calculations realized with REFPROF, a new rail heat treatment line was designed. The new machine makes it possible to deliver high performance rails in an optimal state of residual stress with an increased productivity.