Topology optimization together with additive manufacturing allows engineers to design light weight components. SKF has applied this technology to a railway axle box.

The achieved gains are either

-        increased stiffness by 50% with slightly reduced weight, or

-        weight reduction of 50% for the same stiffness.

This virtual proof of concept opens the door to propose weight optimized axle box designs. Market insights show that weight reduction is more and more often a requirement for new rolling stock designs, and there is great support from various institutions for light weight solution development.