Abstract
Train run-throughs on railway switches is a special issue where a train passes through non-trailable railway switches in the wrong direction. This has the potential to causes severe damage and can lead to derailment. In order to undertstand the impact of train run-throughs on railway switches, a three-dimensional (3D) Finite Element (FE) model using explicit analysis has been developed. A detailed switch model has been developed that includes all key components: stretcher bars, supplementary drive, point operating equipment. The model was validated through a specifically designed experiment where switch run-throughs were emulated on a real switch; a good agreement was found between the experimental data and the model. The model has been used to make an assessment of the locking mechanisms. The forces in each component have been assessed and investigated, and the observations of failure location and component during run-through analysis are indicated. During a run-through the supplementary drive rod and stretcher bar encounter a significant plastic deformation, and it is recommended that they should be redesigned in order to avoid plastic behaviour.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Journal | Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part F: Journal of Rail and Rapid Transit |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 5 Sept 2018 |
Keywords
- Finite Element (FE) Analysis
- locking mechanism
- switch
- run-through
- turnout
- explicit analysis