Coupled field finite element analysis of railway block brakes

Abstract

Simulation of interface pressure and temperature distribution in a railway block brake is carried out using a coupled field (structural—thermal) finite element method. Temperature is estimated using the heat generation calculated from the interface pressure. Deceleration of the wheel is simulated by applying rotations. With the use of coupled field analysis along with the simulation of deceleration, heat generation at a point on the rubbing surface is calculated from the instant value of interface pressure at that time. Present results are verified with the experimental values for temperature rise, variation in speed, and stop time.