Axle box bearings on the high-Speed train: vibration characteristics analysis in the context of multi-source faults

Abstract

Multi-source fault working conditions may accelerate the deterioration of the axle box bearings on the high-speed train and worsen their dynamic performance. In the context, a coupling model including the high-speed train and axle box bearings was established. Combined with the wheel flat model and the axle box bearing fault model, the acceleration vibration response characteristics of the axle box bearing were obtained through the co-simulation under multi-source fault working conditions. The vibration properties of bearings on the same bogie were analyzed, and the stability of the bearings was further analyzed as the vehicle through a curve-line condition. According to the research, a defect on a wheel will affect all axle box bearings on the same bogie, but a fault on a bearing will not. The longitudinal and lateral directions of the vehicle’s running are advantageous for detecting bearing faults. The motion instability of the bearing is increased if the wheel has a defect or the vehicle travels over the curve section. Besides, both the force on the axle box bearing and its internal contact force are significantly affected by the rail line conditions.