A time-domain model for coupled vertical and tangential wheel/rail interaction - a contribution to the modelling of curve squeal

Paper i proceeding, 2012

Lateral forces due to frictional instability are seen as the main reason for the occurrence of curve squeal. Predicting squeal requires thus to describe the high-frequency wheel/rail interaction during curving including the coupling between vertical and lateral directions. In this article, a time-domain approach is presented which includes both vertical and lateral forces and takes into account the non-linear processes in the contact zone. Track and wheel are described as linear systems using pre-calculated impulse response functions. The non-linear, non-steady state contact model is based on an influence function method for the elastic half-space, includes a velocity-dependent friction coefficient and accounts for surface roughness. First results from the interaction model demonstrate the functioning of the approach.