Transient wheel-rail rolling contact theories

This paper provides an overview of different theories to analyse unsteady rolling contact phenomena between wheel and rail: the exact formulation by Kalker, the simplified model based on the Winkler approximation, and the recent two-regime model. The classic solution to the transient problem derived by Kalker using the complete theory of elasticity is first recalled. The more involved situation of combined creepages and spin is analysed using Kalker's simplified model. Analytical solutions are reported in integral form concerning the time-varying and constant creepages. Qualitative results are additionally provided for the case of a time-varying contact patch. Finally, a novel theory, which describes the transient evolution of the force-creepage characteristics using a system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs), is introduced.

Automated summary

This paper provides an overview of different theories, including exact formulation, simplified models and a recent two-regime model, to analyze unsteady rolling contact phenomena between wheel and rail. The classic solution to the transient problem and the more complicated situation of combined creepages and spin using simplified models are discussed. Analytical solutions and qualitative results for time-varying and constant creepages are reported. Finally, a novel theory using ordinary differential equations is introduced to describe the transient evolution of force-creepage characteristics.