Sensitivity of Train Velocity and Track Curvature on Wear in Closed Loop Wheel-Rail Profiles

Abstract

In this paper an open wagon equipped with three pieces bogies has been simulated as multi body dynamics model with non-linear effects of wedges and structural clearances using Universal Mechanism software. Analyses have been performed on closed loop track with tangent and curved sections considering random irregularities in the vertical and lateral directions of the track. Simulation results are used to calculate the friction work, wheel wear depth and worn wheel profiles for different velocities and radii of curvature. “Specht†model based on “Archard's Theory†is used for wear calculations. The wear depth of outer wheels is assessed to determine the effect of velocity, track curvature and Pivot friction of bogie on the wear pattern of wheels. The results show that Pivot friction has a great effect on the non-uniform wear of wheels even in short distances and the friction work is found to be dependent on the velocity.