Objective: to improve the operational performance of gearbox housings in locomotives and prevent lubricant losses during rolling stock operation. Methods: an analysis of locomotive gearbox housing damage was conducted to identify underlying causes. Existing gear housing designs were reviewed with emphasis on reliability, strength, and structural stiffness. Results: design solutions for the gear housing have been proposed to enhance its strength, stiffness, and durability, while reducing lubricant consumption. Practical significance: the proposed improvements will enable increased locomotive mileage without additional outfitting of wheel–motor units. The environmental imperative for adopting the enhanced gearbox housing design has been emphasized.
Oparina et al. (Thu,) studied this question.