Optimal operation of a rail lubrication device with respect to noise reduction and wheel/rail friction coefficient

Abstract

During research work, three series of studies were performed to support the importance of using rail lubrication at tramway tracks in Budapest. The first task was to determine the noise reduction efficiency of automated rail lubrication: noise measurements were performed in case of lubricated rails with corrugations, non-lubricated rails with corrugations, grinded rails as well as grinded and lubricated rails. Once the conformity was determined, an additional task was to find the right lubricant. After the noise and braking effect tests of various lubricants, it was a legitimate need to determine the optimum lubricant application because the setting of the devices is based only on the experience of the Operator. Finally, the noise mitigation effect and the friction coefficient affecting the wheel/rail contact with different lubricant application settings were investigated simultaneously. It is important that the lubricant be applied in appropriate amount such that even the safe movement of the trams is guaranteed, but at the same time the noise reduction is satisfactory too. Based on the results, the authors make recommendations for the application of the rail lubrication devices.

Formation Mechanism of Rail Corrugation for Modern Tram Lines

“…Based on the tram noise calculation model and equivalent noise level measurements, Mandula et al [22] constructed an improved calculation model for predicting the noise level of the tram. Csortos et al [23] analyzed the necessary of using rail lubrication on tram tracks and investigated the type and application amounts of lubricants so as to obtain a satisfactory noise reduction. In addition, through indoor and field measurements, Csortos et al [24] evaluated the effect of rail dampers for vibration and noise reduction, and the results showed that rail web elements could be used for rolling noise reduction and vibration attenuation in most cases.…”

Decision Support System for Managing Marshalling Yard Deviations

“…The main processes in marshalling yard are: Pre-notification of incoming and outgoing trains, Arriving and checking incoming trains, Disaggregating/aggregating trains; Wagon shunting within the yard; Throwing wagons using the hump and/or the locomotive; Checking and departure outgoing trains; Wagon maintenance. These are standard processes and part of the standard and usual daily data flow [1][2][3][4][5]. The common processes are automated on satisfaction level with various IT applications [2].…”