A Three-Dimensional Model for Dynamic Interaction in Wheel-Rail Contact

The mechanics of the wheel-rail contact is a crucial topic of study for railway engineers. Employing standard shape models of a rail and a wheel that are used in the Tunisian park of railways transport, this study aims to explore the nuances of normal and tangential wheel-rail contact problems and its effect on the stability of a wheelset. This work provides a thorough grasp of the dynamics involved in the analysis of rail-wheel contact problems using three-dimensional mesh models. The research calculates the axle's equations of motion while it travels on a straight track using Newton’s law. An extensive investigation of the wheel-rail contact problems’ solution is presented in this study. Hertz theory is used to solve the normal contact problem, and Kalker’s linear theory is used to solve the tangential contact problem. The study provides a strong framework for improving railway system practices, which railway engineers can use to pursue further improvements in safety and efficiency.