Rail lubrication and its impact on the wheel/rail system

As the effectiveness of Transnet Freight Rail's current hi-rail lubrication strategy cannot be adequately quantified, an investigation into the level of surface protection between application cycles was initiated. Influencing factors such as the tracking performance of rolling stock, the number and type of locomotives and wagons in a train, axle load, train speed, and the coefficient of friction on the gauge face have, thus, been considered. After a brief literature review of international experiences with respect to friction management, a detailed description is given of the tests that were conducted by Transnet Freight Rail. Conclusions from these tests indicate that the increase in rail gauge face temperature on the high rail is dominated by the duration and the magnitude of the flange forces.