Dynamic analysis of railways using the finite element method / Análise dinâmica das vias férreas utilizando o método dos elementos finitos

Abstract

The vibration caused by the passage of trains on railway lines is one of the main causes of maintenance performed on the railway superstructure. These vibrations has the origin from the contact between the wheels of the train and the rail tracks, and they are propagated through the track components. Therefore, methods to perform the analysis of this behavior have been studied due to its great relevance. Over the years computational analysis has been shown an alternative to study physical behaviors, including those present in rail traffic. One of the tools used is the Finite Element Method (FEM). This study uses a computational approach to analyze the dynamic behavior of a railway section during the passage of a railway vehicle. By using this method, mathematical models capable of describing the same dynamic behavior are also observed, being possible to compare and evaluate the differences in the application and use in each model. The results show some similarities in the characteristics of the response graphs and the values found. However, the modeling of the initial, boundary and loading conditions are crucial for optimizing the results of both models. In this way, finite element method analysis becomes feasible.