How Coupler-Knuckle’s Surface S Angle Impact on Coupler Operation Performances

Abstract

The rail wagon coupler is casting part. Some of foreign products’ error dispersion is significantly greater than domestics’. What influence generated by the results acting on the actual use of performance is still not clear. To this end, this article studied the influence generated by the angle of surface S tangent of coupler-knuckle on coupling connection contour and starting bearing line (referred to as surface S angle) to traction reliability, coupling feasibility and acting force in tangent line, systematically. And authors explored the value ranges of surface S angle in order to ensure the operation performance of coupler-knuckle. Firstly, find the major factors which are associated to surface S angle by studying the movement mechanism of coupling and traction. For example, the maximum level angle of coupler-knuckles, the ability for vehicle to pass the curves, etc. And then, get analytical expression of coupler surface S angle and related factors by means of theoretical derivation. After that, obtain value ranges of surface S angle. Finally, carry on experiments with multi-body dynamics simulation software RecurDyn. On the one hand, eliminate unreasonable value ranges obtained by theoretical derive, on the other hand, analyze the changing rule of the acting force on coupler-knuckle contour. The results prove that, when coupler surface S angle is , the traction performance of coupler is relatively stable, the coupling performance is relatively reliable, the contact force on coupler-knuckle contour is smaller. The conclusion is consistent with surface S angle parameter required by the standard system of Association of American Railroads. The research results above provided the theoretical basis for improving coupler’s manufacturability.