Nonlinear three-dimensional wagon-track model for the investigation of rail corrugation initiation on curved track

• Published in: Vehicle system dynamics Vol. 45; no. 2; pp. 113 - 132
• Main Authors: Sun, Y. Q., Simson, S.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Colchester Taylor & Francis 01.02.2007
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Buildings. Public works; Exact sciences and technology; Fundamental areas of phenomenology (including applications); Machine components; Mechanical engineering. Machine design; Physics; Rail corrugation; Railway tracks (foundations and track subgrades); Sleeper-passing frequency; Solid mechanics; Springs and dampers; Structural and continuum mechanics; Transportation infrastructure; Vibration, mechanical wave, dynamic stability (aeroelasticity, vibration control...); Wagon-track modelling; Wheel stick-slip process; Wheelset's bending frequency; Wheelset's torsional frequency; Wheel; Creep; Wheelset's torsional frequency; Sleeper; Sleeper-passing frequency; Vehicle dynamics; Modeling; Frequency effect; Axle; Wheelset's bending frequency; Rail; Self excitation; Spring mass damper system; Rail transportation; Surface conditions; Bogie; Wheel stick-slip process; Wagon-track modelling; Rail vehicle; Rail corrugation; Wavelength; Freight transportation; Stick slip; Non linear effect; Curvature
• ISSN: 0042-3114; 1744-5159
• DOI: 10.1080/00423110600863407

A nonlinear wagon-track model on curved track has been developed to characterize rail corrugation formation due to self-excitation of the wheel-rail stick-slip process. In this model, wagon movements were described using up to 78 degrees of freedom (DOFs) to model a three-piece freight bogie. Innovatively, the wheelset movements are described using nine DOFs, including torsional and bending modes about the longitudinal and vertical directions. The track modelling is considered as a one-layer structure (two rail beams on discrete spring and damper elements). The wheel sliding after creepage saturation is considered in the wheel-rail interface modelling. Simulation of a case study shows that the frequencies of the wheel stick-slip process are composed of the basic frequency, which might come from the combined effect of sleeper-passing frequency and one-third of the combined torsional and bending frequency of the wheelset, and the double and triple basic frequencies, which form the wavelengths of rail corrugation at different situations.