Abstract
Flange climb derailments can occur in sharp curves or curves with turnouts within relatively short accumulated running distances subsequent to wheel turning, which indicates that a change in the condition of the turned wheel surface might be inducing flange climbing. This study investigates the relationship between the running safety of a vehicle and its wheel surface condition, especially in terms of wheel/rail friction. The effectiveness and persistence of lubrication just after wheel turning was evaluated as a potential countermeasure to flange climb derailments. Running tests, experiments and numerical simulations were conducted. Results showed that the coefficient of friction between the flange and the rail gage corner is estimated to increase as peaks from turning are worn down, due to exposure of metallic substrate on the surface and extension of the real contact area. Lubrication did appear to be an effective countermeasure. Oil appeared effective in keeping the coefficient of friction low even after long accumulated running distances.
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