The accreditation was carried out by TWI Certification Ltd. The new accreditation is primarily focused on Beakbane’s lightweight composite panels that are used to protect the undersides of trains against damage and impact. These can include a light metal fabricated frame as a sub-assembly, the welding and design of which is covered by the new certification.
The certification was required in conjunction with a major export contract Beakbane has entered into with a leading international high-speed train manufacturer.
The welding processes covered include MMA, MIG, MAG and TIG welding of certain steels, stainless steels, aluminium and aluminium alloys from 2mm to 10mm in thickness.
Although the certification is held by Beakbane, welding is currently carried out by EN 15085-2-certificated subcontractor B Hepworth and Co of Redditch.
Beakbane Managing Director Mike Southwell said: “This is a further important step in the expansion of our rail industry composites business. We have invested heavily in developing our technology and manufacturing facilities for high-performance lightweight composites structures that bring a wide range of benefits in rail applications.”
