| Abstract | The wheel/rail (W/R) interface experiences variable friction conditions during in-service operation. This is due mainly to the application of top-of-rail friction modifiers, gage face lubricants, and other third-body materials that exist at the W/R interface due to non-controlled environmental factors (e.g., rain, ice, plants, etc.). Friction acts to modify the traction coefficient (Tc) (i.e., creep curve) at the W/R contact zone. Understanding creep curve behavior as a function of friction is critical to providing accurate numerical modelling boundary condition inputs of wheel response during train operation. Accurate numeerical modelling of train operations allows optimization of in-service component life cycles, maximizing safe operations of these components and minimizing detrimental environmental impacts. The study was aimed at mapping out Tc behavior as a function of four friction conditions: dry, wet, lube stick, and top of rail friction modification stick, applied directly on the wheel tread surface. In addition, vertical loading and wheel speed were investigated. Creep curve saturation results were presented independently as a function of each input condition. Wear and rolling contact fatigue we.re assessed as well on the wheel running su rface following each friction condition run. |
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