Understanding Wheel-Climb Derailments

In this article the authors describe a study on wheel-climb derailments which was intended to provide lay persons with a better practical understanding on the subject. First the original account of wheel flange-climb is described, which is based on a simple equilibrium of forces between wheel and rail on an inclined plane of contact. However, earlier descriptions of wheel-rail interactions did not take into account gauge-face angle, rail lubrication, top-of-rail frication, and wheel-flange angle. Creating a wheel-climb index for each of these contact conditions greatly improves data representation and testing for soundness against derailments. Other conditions that the authors suggest to be accounted for in such an index are track curvature, track gauge, cant deficiency, wheelbase, and suspension stiffness. A second stage of studies for the future of implementing these indices is described, currently in the research phase.

Language

  • English

Media Info

  • Media Type: Print
  • Features: Figures; Tables;
  • Pagination: pp 37-41
  • Serial:

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 01085858
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Source Agency: UC Berkeley Transportation Library
  • Files: BTRIS, TRIS
  • Created Date: Jan 28 2008 10:04AM