The steel wheel for a freight car has three basic functions: (1) to act as a brake drum, (2) to support the weight of the car and its cargo, and (3) to guide the freight car on the rails. Freight car wheels are produced by either casting or rotary forging. They are subjected to complex conditions of dynamic thermal and mechanical stresses. Safety is of great importance, since derailment can cause loss of life and property. Develop a broad systems approach to the design of an improved cast-steel car wheel.