Sensitivity analysis of railpad parameters on vertical railway track dynamics

Journal Article (2016)
Author(s)

M Oregui Echeverria-Berreyarza (TU Delft - Railway Engineering)

Alfredo Nunez Vicencio (TU Delft - Railway Engineering)

RPBJ Dollevoet (TU Delft - Railway Engineering)

Zili Li (TU Delft - Railway Engineering)

Research Group
Railway Engineering
Copyright
© 2016 M. Oregui Echeverria-Berreyarza, Alfredo Nunez, R.P.B.J. Dollevoet, Z. Li
DOI related publication
https://doi.org/10.1061/(ASCE)EM.1943-7889.0001207
More Info
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Publication Year
2016
Language
English
Copyright
© 2016 M. Oregui Echeverria-Berreyarza, Alfredo Nunez, R.P.B.J. Dollevoet, Z. Li
Research Group
Railway Engineering
Issue number
5
Volume number
143
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Abstract

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 three-dimensional (3D) finite-element track model. In addition, railpads are modeled as Prony series so that measured frequency-dependent railpad properties for different clamp toe load, temperature, aging, and railpad type are considered. Through sensitivity analysis using time-domain and frequency-domain responses, the influence of the railpad parameters on the global track response is investigated. Railpad type, toe load and aging are identified as the most relevant parameters in the frequency range of 300-3,000 Hz. Furthermore, the information obtained over track response changes due to fastening loosening and railpad wear could be used for monitoring the condition of fastenings.