Project information
- Acronym: CONFORCES
- Validation of measurements of the wheel-rail CONtact FOrces through instrumental wheelsets for UIC Leaflet 518 homologation purposes
- Sector: Rail System Forum/TTI Sector
- Project start date: 01/01/2024
- Duration: 36 months
- Project director: Rosa Casquero
- Project manager: Jesus Palma
- Status: ongoing project
- Project code: 2024/RSF/849
Project description
This project is essential for advancing the accuracy and reliability of measuring contact forces between train wheels and rails. Accurate measurement of these forces is crucial for ensuring the safety and efficiency of railway operations. However, several challenges complicate this measurement process, necessitating a focused project to address these issues.
When measuring contact forces between train wheels and rails, several critical aspects must be considered. First, there are three different types of contact forces, each measured indirectly. During the measurement process, the exact contact position between the wheel and rail remains unknown, which can affect the precision of the data collected. Additionally, dynamic inertial errors and wheel wear can occur, further complicating accurate measurement.
Instrumented wheelsets are pivotal in measuring these contact forces accurately. These specialized wheelsets are equipped with sensors to collect data on the forces exerted during train operations. However, while the UIC Leaflet 518 provides a code of practice regarding operating conditions for vehicle approval, it does not offer specific guidelines for evaluating the precision and accuracy of instrumented wheelsets under actual running conditions.
This project aims to fill this gap by developing and validating guidelines to assess the performance of instrumented wheelsets. By doing so, it will enhance the reliability of contact force measurements, ultimately contributing to safer and more efficient railway systems.
Project objectives
The primary objective of this project is to analyze and propose guidelines for evaluating the precision and accuracy of wheelsets in running conditions. This involves a thorough examination of current practices and the development of new standards that ensure more reliable measurements. By refining these guidelines, we aim to improve the overall accuracy of contact force measurements, which is critical for maintaining the safety and efficiency of railway operations.
Another key objective is to analyse and propose guidelines for measuring wheel-rail contact forces using instrumented wheelsets. Instrumented wheelsets are essential tools for capturing the dynamic interactions between wheels and rails. However, without standardised guidelines, the data collected can be inconsistent and unreliable. This project will address this issue by establishing comprehensive guidelines that enhance the reliability and accuracy of these measurements.
Lastly, the project seeks to describe an accepted method for measuring wheel-rail contact forces with instrumented wheelsets, including a robust calibration process. Calibration is vital to ensure that the measurements are accurate and consistent across different conditions and equipment. By developing and validating a standardized method, the project will provide valuable insights and tools that can be used by the railway industry to improve measurement techniques and ensure compliance with UIC 518 homologation purposes.
Interest for Members
The project offers significant added value to members by enhancing their knowledge and techniques related to measuring wheel-rail contact forces. It will update and refine codes of practice and measurement instruments, aligning them with the latest standards and technological advancements. This will not only improve the accuracy of their measurements but also streamline the approval process for railway vehicles under UIC 518 guidelines.
Benefits for the Railway System
On an international scale, infrastructure managers and the entire railway industry will benefit from this project. It will provide harmonized guidelines for the measurement of wheel-rail contact forces, promoting consistency and reliability across different regions and systems. This harmonization will facilitate better maintenance practices, improve safety standards, and enhance the overall efficiency of railway operations worldwide.
