Dynamics and stability analysis of a freight wagon subjective to the railway track and wheelset operational conditions

In order to enhance railway freight bogie dynamic behavior, a proposal is made for varying the axle box clearances. In essence it introduces nonlinear effects and plays an important role for the bogie dynamic performance. This research involves investigation on the effects of axle box clearances, variation of the wheel-rail friction coefficient and the track curve radius on rail vehicle nonlinear critical speed. Bifurcation diagrams and system dynamic behavior are calculated. Possibility for chaotic solutions and the effect of axle box clearances on bogie curving are also studied. Rail vehicle specifications and the track related parameters originate from real operational conditions. The effects of axle box clearances on wheel wear are examined. The consequences of wheel-rail profile geometry, contact point distribution for various rail inclinations on vehicle curving are considered. The results are debated and recommendations are proposed to improve the vehicle dynamic performance.