Rail transportation is a vital and sustainable method for passengers, exports, and cargo. With increasing demand in rail systems, performance improvement is necessary. The lifespan of rails decreases with higher rates of friction and rail head deterioration, resulting in increased maintenance costs. To increase the lifespan of rails, preventive maintenance methods can be employed, which enhance rail strength or reduce friction forces between the wheel and rail interface. Compared to rail repair and maintenance strategies, laser cladding is a promising method for surface repair in the railway industry.

This method can automatically deposit materials with improved properties onto worn-out parts, thereby enhancing resistance against wear and contact fatigue. Therefore, the use of laser cladding provides new potential opportunities for improving railway components and equipment. Some of the repaired or refurbished parts and equipment in the railway industry using laser cladding technology include:

• Rails
• Rail sleepers
• Switches
• Engine smoke valves
• Wagon wheels