THE EFFECT OF SUSPENSION DESIGN ON RAIL STRESSES

The matching of spring stiffness and damper characteristics is discussed as an aid to improving riding and reducing rail stresses. Dynamic wheel load due to spring deflection as a function of deflection distribution and damping factors for a 100-ton truck locomotive is illustrated. The approximate dependence of the total wheel-load versus speed, which might be encountered in service, is plotted. The effect of spring stiffness, mass ratio and bolster damping factors on body displacement relative to the ground, on the deflection of bolster springs, on truck frame displacement relative to the ground, and on the deflection of axlebox springs, are shown. The theory that the stresses imposed on rails decrease inversely to wheel diameter is discredited.

• Corporate Authors:

  Temple Press Limited

  161-166 Fleet Street
  Longon EC4,   England 
• Authors:
  • KOFFMAN, J L
• Publication Date: 1959-3-27

Media Info

• Features: Figures; References; Tables;
• Pagination: p. 361
• Serial:
  • RAILWAY GAZETTE
  • Volume: 110

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Axles; Damping (Physics); Deflection; Railroad rails; Ride quality; Spring; Stiffness; Stresses; Suspensions; Technology; Trucks; Vehicle design; Velocity; Wheel loads; Wheels
• Geographic Terms: United Kingdom
• Old TRIS Terms: Axle design; Rail stress; Wheel design
• Subject Areas: Design; Motor Carriers; Railroads; Vehicles and Equipment;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00037695
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Dec 4 1994 12:00AM