Abstract
The structural feasibility of using a pultrusion of carbon-fibre-reinforced polymers (CFRP) for the lightweight design of a mast for overhead line railway electrification was investigated and simulated. Material characterisation was undertaken using three-point bending and finite element analysis to identify the orthotropic properties of the pultruded tubes designed for a composite mast for overhead electrification. An innovative design of the mast was proposed and verified using a simulation that compared the deflection and stress levels under wind and inertial load. From the simulation results, it was concluded that the proposed composite structure design complies with the mechanical performance requirements for its implementation and benefits the application with a weight reduction of more than 80% with respect to the current steel mast design.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
