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    Why Do Trains Run On Metal Wheels And Cars Have Rubber Tyres?

    By Vishal kumar
    30 Mar'23  6 min read
    Why Do Trains Run On Metal Wheels And Cars Have Rubber Tyres?
    Synopsis

    Have you ever wondered why they have different types of wheels especially, metal for trains and rubber for cars? Let's find out the reasons behind the use of different materials in wheels for these two modes of transport.

    Why Do Trains Run On Metal Wheels And Cars Have Rubber Tyres?
    Synopsis

    Have you ever wondered why they have different types of wheels especially, metal for trains and rubber for cars? Let's find out the reasons behind the use of different materials in wheels for these two modes of transport.

    Wheels are an essential component of transportation, a part of an automobile that allows it to move efficiently and effectively on various types of terrain. However, not all wheels are the same, and the materials used for making them can vary depending on the vehicle's specific requirements and the environment in which it will be used. Two examples of this can be seen in the use of metal wheels for trains and rubber tyres for cars. But why is metal used for trains and rubber for cars? What are the reasons behind these choices and what are the factors that influence them?

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    Why Do We Need Different Wheels For Different Vehicles

    Let us first consider some of the significant factors that need to be considered before deciding on the appropriate type of wheel to be used for different vehicles. While there are several factors that play a role, some of the primary ones include friction, type of vehicle, weight and load capacity, speed and distance traveled, terrain and environmental conditions, and the desired level of comfort and noise reduction.

    Type Of Vehicle

    Different types of vehicles have different requirements when it comes to wheel materials. For example, trains and airplanes require heavy-duty metal wheels that can handle a lot of weight and force, while cars and bicycles require lighter, more flexible wheels that can provide good traction and absorb shock. The type of vehicle also determines the size and shape of the wheels, which in turn affects their durability and efficiency.

    Friction

    Friction is a critical factor to consider when selecting the appropriate type of wheel for different modes of transportation. Friction is a force that arises when two surfaces come into contact with each other and oppose each other's motion. It plays a vital role in determining the efficiency and performance of wheels in various applications. The level of friction depends on several factors, including the nature of the surfaces in contact, the weight and load capacity of the vehicle, and the speed and distance travelled. By understanding the role of friction, engineers can design wheels that provide optimal performance, efficiency, and safety for different modes of transportation.

    Weight And Load Capacity

    The weight and load capacity of a vehicle are critical factors in selecting the right wheel material. Heavy vehicles, such as trucks and buses, require sturdy, high-load capacity wheels that can support the weight of the vehicle and its cargo. Lighter vehicles, such as cars and motorcycles, require lighter wheels that can provide good performance without compromising fuel efficiency.

    Speed And Distance Traveled

    The speed and distance traveled by a vehicle can also influence the choice of wheel material. Vehicles that travel long distances at high speeds, such as trains and airplanes, require wheels that can handle the heat generated by friction with the ground or track. Cars that travel at moderate speeds on highways require wheels that provide good traction and stability, while bicycles that travel at lower speeds require wheels that are lightweight and easy to maneuver.

    Terrain And Environmental Conditions

    The terrain and environmental conditions in which a vehicle is used can affect the choice of wheel material. Vehicles used on rough or uneven terrain, such as off-road vehicles, require wheels that can handle the bumps and shocks of the terrain. Vehicles used in extreme weather conditions, such as snow or ice, require wheels that can provide good traction on slippery surfaces. Environmental conditions can also affect the durability of the wheels, as exposure to moisture or chemicals can cause corrosion or damage.

    Desired Level Of Comfort And Noise Reduction

    The desired level of comfort and noise reduction can also influence the choice of wheel material. Vehicles used for transportation, such as cars and buses, require wheels that provide a smooth ride and reduce noise and vibration. Wheels with good shock absorption and noise reduction properties can make the ride more comfortable for passengers and reduce driver fatigue.

    Why Do Trains Use Metal Wheels?

    Trains are required to travel long distances at high speeds, carrying a massive amount of weight. As a result, the wheels used for trains must meet these criteria. The wheels of a train should have minimal friction. Trains travel on rails that are extremely uniform and smooth, with no bumps or holes, making it essential to maintain high speeds.

    To enable trains to travel at high speeds over long distances while carrying heavy loads, the wheels of the train must have minimal friction. This is achieved by using smooth metal wheels that run on smooth metal rails. The absence of bumps or holes in the railway tracks ensures that the train can maintain a high speed, and the use of steel wheels on steel rails reduces friction by 85 - 99 per cent .

    To move a train, a significant amount of energy is required due to its immense weight. Rubber wheels are not suitable for this purpose as they require a large amount of energy to rotate, and most of the engine's force is utilized to turn the wheels. Metal wheels, on the other hand, are more efficient as they produce less friction and require less energy to move. This is important for trains as they need to conserve as much energy as possible to travel long distances at high speeds while carrying heavy loads. Additionally, metal wheels can handle the heat generated by friction with the rails, which can be significant when traveling at high speeds.

    Using rubber wheels for trains is not practical because of several reasons. Rubber wheels require a high amount of energy to move, and the weight of the train makes this even more difficult. Friction also increases with weight, making rubber wheels impractical for trains. Instead, trains use metal wheels, which reduce friction and require less energy to move, enabling them to travel long distances at high speeds.

    Why Do Cars Use Rubber Tyres

    Cars are a different story compared to trains. While both modes of transportation use wheels to move, cars are designed to travel shorter distances at slower speeds and carry much less weight than trains. As a result, cars use rubber tyres, which provide better traction on different surfaces and produce less noise than metal wheels. Additionally, rubber tyres absorb shock better than metal wheels, resulting in a smoother ride for passengers. Rubber tyres also have the advantage of being easier and cheaper to replace than metal wheels.

    Friction is a critical factor that influences the choice of wheels for different types of vehicles. Trains need to maintain high speeds and carry heavy loads, which means they require minimal friction. As a result, metal wheels are used to reduce friction and allow for smooth travel. In contrast, cars need to navigate various road surfaces, including uneven terrains, which require high levels of friction. Rubber tyres are used to provide the necessary grip and traction needed for safe and efficient driving.

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