Optimization of a convex pattern surface for sliding wear reduction based on a definitive screening design and discrete element method

A previous study revealed that a convex pattern surface can reduce sliding wear of a transfer chute. A convex pattern surface is a flat surface outfitted with a pattern of convexes defined by five parameters. A three-level definitive screening design (DSD) method combined with discrete element method (DEM) is used to investigate the influence...

Rheology study of ballast-sleeper interaction with particle image Velocimetry (PIV) and discrete element modelling (DEM)

Ballast rheology is a phenomenon that describes movements of ballast particles due to the discrete nature, which eventually leads to the ballast bed fluid deformation after a long-time service. In most cases, ballast rheology is the main reason of track irregularity that leads to some track defects, e.g., hanging sleeper and mud spots....