In-house mechanical engineering and design, from the shop, field, and wheel
FMW Solutions provides engineering analysis, CAD design, boiler engineering, fluid dynamics, finite element analysis, and mechanical system development for railroads, museums, public agencies, and private industry.
Railroads depend upon machines operating under some of the harshest conditions found in transportation. Locomotives, passenger cars, boilers, machinery, and specialized railroad equipment are subjected to enormous mechanical loads, thermal stresses, vibration, fatigue, and environmental exposure. Designing, repairing, and improving these systems requires engineering solutions that are both technically sound and practical to implement.
FMW Solutions provides mechanical engineering services rooted in real-world railroad experience. Our engineers work closely with shop personnel, operators, fabricators, and management teams to develop solutions that can be built, maintained, and successfully operated in the field. Our designers seek to find an appropriate balance between performance and cost to suit the goals of each client. The resulting solutions may employ fabrication techniques ranging from welding to conventional machining to CNC machining and even 3D metal printing.
Our commitment to safety is reflected in our participation in various standards development committees with organizations such as AAR, ASME, ASTM, CSA, and NBIC. Design efforts also include industry-standard tools like Failure Modes & Effects Analysis (FMEA) as appropriate to minimize safety issues before metal is even cut.
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FMW utilizes SolidWorks® and modern engineering tools to develop detailed three-dimensional models, fabrication drawings, assemblies, and manufacturing documentation.
FMW utilizes SolidWorks® and modern engineering tools to develop detailed three-dimensional models, fabrication drawings, assemblies, and manufacturing documentation.
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Steam locomotive boilers represent one of the most demanding engineering disciplines still encountered in transportation. FMW combines practical boiler repair experience and deep familiarity with construction and repair codes with advanced engineering analysis to support restoration, operation, and new construction projects.
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The movement of steam, air, fuel, exhaust gases, and combustion products directly impacts locomotive performance, efficiency, reliability, and emissions. FMW applies both historic practice and modern engineering principles to improve system performance and solve complex operational challenges.
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When critical equipment fails, understanding why is often more important than simply replacing the damaged component. FMW investigates mechanical failures, identifies root causes, develops corrective actions, and helps clients improve long-term reliability.
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FMW actively participates in the development and evaluation of emerging railroad technologies, fuel systems, and sustainability initiatives. Our experience includes alternative fuel research, steam locomotive fuel conversions, efficiency improvements, and engineering evaluations intended to improve operational sustainability while preserving railroad functionality and heritage.
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Answers to common questions about railroad mechanical engineering, CAD design, finite element analysis, boiler engineering, failure analysis, and technical consulting services.
