Calculation and experimental verification of force-magnetic coupling model of magnetised rail based on density functional theory

Abstract

Metal magnetic memory (MMM) is a widely used non-destructive electromagnetic detection technology. However, the analysis of its underlying principle is still insufficient. The mechanical and magnetic coupling model is a reasonable standpoint from which to study the principle of MMM. In this paper, a mechanical and magnetic coupling model of steel material is established based on density functional theory (DFT) using the CASTEP first-principles analysis software. In order to simulate the practical working environment, the residual magnetism in the rail is assumed to change with the stress on the rail. By applying different stresses to the model, the relationship between the atomic magnetic moment, the lattice constant and stress is explored, as well as the causes of magnetic signals in the stress concentration zone. It is revealed that the atomic magnetic moment and the crystal volume decrease with the increase in compressive stress. The magnetic signal on the surface of the magnetised metal component decreases with the increase in compressive stress, while the tensile stress shows the opposite tendency. Generally speaking, the change in atomic magnetic moment and crystal volume caused by lattice distortion under stress can be seen as the fundamental reason for the change in magnetic signal on the surface of the magnetised metal. The bending experiment of the rail shows that the normal magnetic field decreases with the increase in compressive stress in the stress concentration zone. The conclusion is verified by experiments.