The Analysis of Wear Intensity of Lubricated and Unlubricated Locomotive Wheel Sets Flanges

Wheel-sets sustain heavy wear and require major repair more frequently than most other locomotive units. It is important to monitor wheel-set wear. This study determined safety margins and provided recommendations for frequency of servicing. Wheel wear is caused by elastic deformation that occurs when metal is forced out from the running surface towards the flange. Heavy deformation is due to long- term wheel-rail contact. Wear is also caused by thermal affects that result from wheel spinning or the stopping of a locomotive. This study found that the rate of flange wear determines how much time should pass between wheel-set overhauls. The results suggest that the flange will be worn down to the limiting width after roughly 160,000 kilometers without lubrication and roughly 210,000 kilometers with lubrication. Lubrication can increase the mileage of flanges up to 31 percent. The mathematical models used allowed the authors to predict wear with a 95 percent accuracy rate.