Vibration modes and wave propagation of the rail under fastening constraint

This paper investigates three-dimensional (3D) rail vibrations under fastening constraint up to 5000 Hz and provides insights into rail vibration control by fastening parameters. A methodology is proposed, including experimental investigation and numerical simulations of rail vibrations. Three steps are considered: 1) experimental investigation...

Multi-criteria evaluation of wheel/rail degradation at railway crossings

This study evaluates the degradation of wheels and rails at railway crossings. The evaluation method is composed of 1) finite element simulation of dynamic wheel/crossing interaction and 2) multi-criteria analysis of wheel/rail degradation in terms of yield behavior, rolling contact fatigue (RCF) and wear. With the aid of this method, we...

Robust and predictive fuzzy key performance indicators for condition-based treatment of squats in railway infrastructures

This paper presents a condition-based treatment methodology for a type of rail surface defect called squat. The proposed methodology is based on a set of robust and predictive fuzzy key performance indicators. A fuzzy Takagi-Sugeno interval model is used to predict squat evolution for different scenarios over a time horizon. Models including...

Influencing factors for condition-based maintenance in railway tracks using knowledge-based approach

In this paper, we present a condition-based maintenance decision method using<br/>knowledge-based approach for rail surface defects. A railway track may contain a considerable number of surface defects which influence track maintenance decisions. The proposed method is based on two sets of maintenance decision factors i.e. (1) defect detection...

New insights into the short pitch corrugation development enigma based on 3D-FE dynamic vehicle-track coupled modelling in frictional rolling contact

A three-dimensional (3D) finite element (FE) dynamic frictional rolling contact model is presented for the study of short pitch corrugation that considers direct and instantaneous coupling between the contact mechanics and the structural dynamics in a vehicle-track system. In this study, we examine the system responses in terms of vibration...

Sensitivity analysis of railpad parameters on vertical railway track dynamics

This paper presents a sensitivity analysis of railpad parameters on vertical railway track dynamics, incorporating the nonlinear behavior of the fastening (i.e., downward forces compress the railpad whereas upward forces are resisted by the clamps). For this purpose, solid railpads, rail-railpad contact and preloaded springs are defined in a...