ResearchActivities

Wheel-rail friction management techniques

Abstract:
This research aims to optimize wheel-rail friction through the targeted application of lubricants, friction modifiers, and traction-enhancing materials into this interface. The goal of applied research and technological development in this field is to improve energy efficiency and safety in rail transport, reduce wear on wheels and rails, and mitigate other negative effects.

Main objectives:

  • To clarify of friction layer formation when applying lubricants and other products to the wheel-rail interface.

  • To develop intelligent application units and control algorithms for applying friction-modifying materials between the wheel and rail.

  • To develop environmentally friendly lubricants, friction modifiers, and alternative traction recovery methods.

Research content:
The research focuses on friction management methods in rail transport, aiming to reduce noise and wear. The primary objective is to enhance the efficiency of these methods, maximizing their benefits while minimizing environmental impact. Achieving this goal requires a thorough understanding of the mechanisms involved in the friction film formation when using lubricants or top-of-rail products. These mechanisms are influenced not only by the physical properties of the applied products but also wheel-rail contact conditions, such as pressure, speed, and environmental factors like temperature.

A comprehensive understanding of these mechanisms is essential for evaluating two key friction layer parameters: carry distance (the extent to which a product spreads) and retentivity (the duration of its effectiveness). To study these factors, a globally unique portable tribometer was developed, enabling direct friction measurements on the rail head. The pilot study utilizing this device introduced a redistribution model for top-of-rail products, which helps simulate and optimize the application process for these products.

Optimizing the application process of lubricants and top-of-rail products is vital for improving the overall performance of friction management methods. As a result, the ongoing development of application units is centred on integrating advanced control systems, communication technologies, and IoT solutions. Significant efforts are directed toward developing next-generation lubricants and top-of-rail products that are both efficient and environmentally sustainable. A two-phase laboratory testing methodology has been developed and published to evaluate these complex substances, laying the groundwork for designing more efficient and eco-friendly lubricants and top-of-rail products. These innovations will enhance the overall efficiency and sustainability of rail transport.

Publications:
GALAS, Radovan, Martin VALENA, Tomas JORDAN, et al. 2024. A benchmarking methodology for top-of-rail products: Carry distance and retentivity. Tribology International, 2024, vol. 197. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.triboint.2024.109810

GALAS, R.; SKURKA, Š.; VALENA, M.; KVARDA, D.; OMASTA, M.; DING, H.; LIN, Q., WANG, W.; KŘUPKA, I.; HARTL, M. A benchmarking methodology for top-of-rail products. Tribology International, 2023, vol. 189, no. November, ISSN: 0301-679X. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.triboint.2023.108910

KVARDA, D.; SKURKA, Š.; GALAS, R.; OMASTA, M.; SHI, L.; DING, H.; WANG, W.; KŘUPKA, I.; HARTL, M. The effect of top of rail lubricant composition on adhesion and rheological behaviour. Engineering Science and Technology, an International Journal, 2022, vol. 35, no. 1, p. 101100-101108. ISSN: 2215-0986. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jestch.2022.101100

OMASTA, M.; MACHATKA, M; SMEJKAL, D.; KŘUPKA, I.; HARTL, M. Influence of sanding parameters on adhesion recovery in contaminated wheel–rail contact. WEAR, 2015, vol. 322-323, no. 1, p. 218-225. ISSN: 0043-1648. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wear.2014.11.017

SHI, L.B.; WANG, C.; DING, H.H.; KVARDA, D.; GALAS, R.; OMASTA, M.; WANG, W.J.; LIU, Q.Y.; HARTL, M. Laboratory investigation on the particle-size effects in railway sanding: Comparisons between standard sand and its micro fragments. Tribology International, 2020, vol. 146, no. 6, p. 106259-106259. ISSN: 0301-679X. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.triboint.2020.106259

Partners and Collaboration:
Southwest Jiaotong University, School of Mechanical Engineering, No. 111 First Section, North of Second Ring Road, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, P.R. China.

TRIBOTEC, spol. s r.o., Košuličova 656/4, 619 00 Brno-jih-Horní Heršpice, Czech Republic.

Projects:
Božek Vehicle Engineering National Center of Competence (BOVENAC), Technology Agency of the Czech Republic (TA CR) – National Centres of Competence, TN02000054, 2023-2028.

Research and development of a system for friction management between wheel and rail using solid modifiers, Technology Agency of the Czech Republic – TREND industrial research and experimental development programme, FW06010012, 2023-2025.

Study on key technologies and application strategies for wheel-rail friction management in rail transport, Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports – INTER-EXCELLENCE – Subprogramme INTER-ACTION, LTACH19001, 2019-2021.

Friction management as a solution for noise and wear mitigation at the wheel-rail interface, Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports – Mobility CZ – China, 8JCH1042, 2019-2021.

Contact person:
Ing. Radovan Galas, Ph.D.