Complete Machining of Railway Wheels: Bochumer Verein Verkehrstechnik relies on NILES-SIMMONS-HEGENSCHEIDT
Highest precision, flexible manufacturing, and outstanding quality: Bochumer Verein Verkehrstechnik (BVV) relies on our RQ series vertical turning centers for railway wheel machining. Project Manager and Facility Manager Björn Könes shares insights into the demands of modern wheel manufacturing, the advantages of the RQQ machines, and a partnership that has exceeded his expectations in every respect.
Railway Wheels with a Long Tradition – and the Highest Manufacturing Standards
Located in the heart of Germany’s Ruhr region, Bochumer Verein Verkehrstechnik has been manufacturing railway wheels since 1842. The company produces wheels, axles, and complete wheelsets for a wide range of applications, from high-speed trains to freight trains. Meeting customer requirements is always at the heart of its operations.
“When it comes to customer requirements, we are generally able to meet virtually any demand. Whether it’s high precision or low imbalance, the customer asks, and we deliver,” explains Björn Könes, describing the company’s commitment.
Meeting these requirements calls for powerful and flexible manufacturing technologies. In addition to turning, the production process also involves milling, drilling, and grinding. For turning operations in particular, Bochumer Verein Verkehrstechnik relies on our advanced machining solutions.
NILES-SIMMONS-HEGENSCHEIDT: Quality That Inspires Confidence
One decisive factor for BVV was the strong reputation of our machines throughout the industry. “We invested in new turning centers from NILES-SIMMONS-HEGENSCHEIDT because they are well known throughout the market for their high quality,” says Könes.
Our machines’ proven track record and broad market acceptance were further reasons for choosing this technology. The RQQ series has established itself in railway wheel manufacturing over many years. “It’s a machine that has been used in the wheel sector for many years and is readily accepted by customers.”
The relationship between the two companies goes back even further. Bochumer Verein Verkehrstechnik has relied on proven HEGENSCHEIDT technology for many years. “We’ve known the HEGENSCHEIDT side of the business for much longer. We already have machines in operation dating back to around 2000,” Könes explains.
RQQ Vertical Turning Centers: Flexibility Across a Broad Product Range
“The advantage of NILES-SIMMONS-HEGENSCHEIDT’s RQQ machines is that they can cover our entire product portfolio. They are also designed from the outset to accommodate automated loading systems,” Könes explains.
The machines are primarily used to machine high-speed train wheels. Depending on order volumes, they can also be used to manufacture freight train wheels for the mass market. This flexibility enables BVV to meet a variety of production requirements with a powerful, versatile machining solution.
From Blank to Finished Wheel – Precision and Efficiency
“Our machines transform wheels from their raw state into finished components through turning operations. This includes both roughing and finishing, from heavy cuts to operations requiring the highest levels of precision,” Könes explains, describing the machining process.
A key advantage is the flexible tooling configuration. Both machine supports are equipped with tool changers. With a wide range of tool positions available, certain wheel dimensions can be machined without extensive machine reconfiguration.
This reduces setup times and increases flexibility in day-to-day production. Different wheel types can be machined efficiently without requiring major adjustments whenever the product changes. The technology therefore supports cost-effective manufacturing while consistently meeting demanding quality standards.
Increasing Production Output and a Partnership That Delivers
The investment in the RQQ vertical turning centers is paying off in day-to-day production. Short setup times and high flexibility help BVV continuously improve its manufacturing operations. Feedback on the machines has been consistently positive.
Könes sums up his experience in clear terms: “The machines increase their production figures week after week and continue to surprise us in a positive way.”
Beyond technical performance, the partnership with NSH GROUP is also an important factor for Bochumer Verein Verkehrstechnik. The longstanding relationship with our HEGENSCHEIDT brand, combined with the positive experience of the new turning centers, provides a strong foundation for continued cooperation.
His final verdict is unequivocal: “To sum up our collaboration with NILES-SIMMONS-HEGENSCHEIDT: it’s been excellent, and we are extremely satisfied.”
