On the Simulation of Powered Axles Stick-Slip

Abstract

The use of high power railway vehicles requires enhanced control of wheel-rail adherence. When setting the train in motion, driving axles can exhibit torsional vibrations resulting in poor adherence and even axle damage. A significant number of railway authorities safety warnings and accident reports were issued related to the above phenomena. Adhesion saturation and negative slope are the characteristics which lead to self-sustained axial vibration. The aim of the present work is to prove the appropriateness of non-smooth models in the study of the axle torsional stick-slip vibrations which may occur when traction vehicles are set into motion. The model is simple, observes the main friction characteristics and provides the basis for efficient dynamics simulation. An experimental setup comprising a reduced scale wheel set is analyzed in order to validate the model proposed. The friction parameters are then identified using the proposed force-creepage relationship. Validation and verification is further carried out in frequency domain using both steady state and transient manoeuvres. Specific phenomena like discontinuities in the time-history friction force values occur. Validation and verification is carried out in frequency domain using both steady state and transient manoeuvres. From the comparison between the numerical and experimental results, it can be concluded that the setup is modeled accurately. Related problems may be solved using the present method, as it is pointed out in the article.