Case Study: Alstom achieves about 70% weight reduction and faster, stiffer part designs with Altair Knowledge Works

Alstom - Customer Case Study

Alstom, a global leader in rail transport systems, needed to optimize an existing cast component used in Metropolis train bogies to support the anti-roll system. The original part was over‑engineered with a high safety factor, and engineers sought a lighter, more efficient design that could be produced either by traditional casting or by metal additive manufacturing.

Using a simulation‑driven workflow—HyperWorks for FE analysis, solidThinking Inspire for topology optimization and solidThinking Evolve for shape refinement—Alstom iterated designs, verified them with detailed FE checks, and partnered with local 3D‑printing firms for additive manufacturing assessment. The result was a customized, stiffer component with about 70% weight reduction, shorter development time, and clear insights into new production options.

Alstom

Juan Manuel Romero

Structures and Calculation Lead Engineer