Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2000-2004
Title: Peter Pointner: Innovator in Rail Technology
Introduction
Peter Pointner is a notable inventor based in Leoben, Austria. He has made significant contributions to the field of rail technology, holding a total of 6 patents. His innovative methods focus on the heat treatment of profiled rolling stock, which is crucial for enhancing the performance and durability of railroad rails.
Latest Patents
Among his latest patents is a method for heat-treating profiled rolling stock. This process involves the manufacture of a railroad rail made from a steel alloy with a pearlitic microstructure. The rail is shaped at a reduction rate of 1.8 to 8% and aligned straight in its longitudinal direction at temperatures ranging from 770°C to 1050°C. After shaping, the rail is mounted head down and allowed to cool slowly in still air to a temperature between 5°C and 120°C above the Ar temperature. Upon reaching this temperature, at least the rail head is dipped into a cooling liquid, facilitating the conversion of an austenitic grain microstructure into a fine pearlitic grain microstructure.
Another significant patent is a procedure for the thermal treatment of rails, particularly focusing on the rail head. This method utilizes a cooling agent containing a synthetic cooling agent additive, starting at temperatures above 720°C. The treatment is performed by immersing the rail in the cooling agent until the immersed areas are withdrawn, maintaining a surface temperature between 450°C and 550°C. This approach avoids hardening of the rail web while ensuring an optimal cooling rate for the rail head.
Career Highlights
Peter Pointner has worked with prominent companies in the rail industry, including Voestalpine Schienen GmbH and Voest-Alpine Schienen GmbH & Co. KG. His experience in these organizations has allowed him to apply his innovative ideas and contribute to advancements in rail technology.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Peter has collaborated with notable colleagues such as Alfred Moser and Georg Prskawetz. These partnerships have further enriched his work and led to the development of effective solutions in the field.
Conclusion
Peter Pointner's contributions to rail technology through his patents and collaborations highlight his role as an influential inventor. His innovative methods for heat treatment are paving the way for advancements in the durability and performance of railroad rails.