Investigation of dynamic gauge widening in small radius curves and its impact on lateral wheel-rail contact forces

In this paper, the lateral interaction between a rail vehicle and the track is investigated during cases of an occurrence of dynamic gauge widening. This is composed of the nominal track gauge, wear of the rail profiles and track widening due to wheel-rail forces on sections of curved track. A multibody simulation model is used to investigate the various influencing parameters. This model not only analyses the single rail’s lateral displacement but also tilting. Furthermore, the simulation of rail pads with adjustable stiffnesses is enabled. The resulting different contact points between the wheel and rail are represented, affecting the wheel-rail contact forces. The results reveal that changes in contact geometry caused by rail tilting depend strongly on the specific wheel and rail profiles. This is illustrated by comparing a new rail profile with a heavily worn rail profile. Particular attention is also paid to the distinction between leading and trailing wheelsets. Finally, the model is validated using measured wheel-rail forces and rail head movement, as measured on the track. A better understanding of dynamic track widening can improve the running behaviour of the wheelset on small radius curves, help protect against derailment and reduce wear on the wheel and rail.