Research to improve the process of sand spraying to the contact of a locomotive wheel with a rail

Abstract

Wheel-rail contact is one of the critical factors in the successful operation of railways. This paper outlines previous and current scientific works carried out to investigate the tribology of the wheel/ rail contact including metal wear, adhesion/ friction and wheel/ rail contact electrical isolation, which is important to keep reliable train detection. The impact of the positions of sanding hose, applying of nozzle and cross wind were investigated. Presented examination how these processes are affected by third body materials in the wheel-rail contact, both natural and applied. The main improvement trends of locomotive sanding system are estimated to ensure a rational amount of sand to spray into contact between the wheel and the rail.