Manufacturing aluminium tanks for Russian Railways using Sespel machines

Aluminium railway tanks for transporting nitric acid have been manufactured using Sespel’s advanced equipment. They are made from high-quality АД0 aluminium alloy with 30 mm walls, providing high strength, corrosion resistance and durability.

Production used modern Sespel friction stir welding (FSW) systems to create high-quality welds without defects or internal stresses. FSW eliminates the use of molten materials, making the process environmentally friendly and safe. After welding, the joint surfaces were milled for precise, smooth finishes.

The tank head edges were machined on Sespel gantry milling machines with rotary tables, allowing precise, efficient preparation for assembly. This approach ensures accurate part geometry and simplifies subsequent assembly and welding.

Sespel equipment significantly improved productivity, reduced labour requirements and ensured high tank quality. The finished products meet all applicable transport equipment requirements and are ready for safe railway service.