Determination of Vertical Accelerations in a Symmetrically Loaded Flat Car with Longitudinal Elastic-Frictional Beams

Abstract

This study concerns dynamic loading on the carrying structure of a flat car with elastic-friction longitudinal beams. The authors built a mathematical model including the vertical displacements in the carrying structure of a flat car symmetrically loaded with four 1 CC containers. The mathematical model was solved with MathCad software. It was found that the maximum accelerations on a flat car were about 2.0 m/s2. Thus, the accelerations obtained were within the allowable values. The study presents the results of computer modeling of dynamic loads on the carrying structure of a container and a flat car with elastic-friction longitudinal beams. The calculation was made with the finite element method in SolidWorks (CosmosWorks) software. Besides, the authors defined the numerical values of these accelerations and the distribution fields relative to the carrying structure of a container and a flat car. The discordance between the results of the mathematical and computer modeling was about 7%. The research may be useful for those who are concerned about designing innovative rolling stock units and improving the operational efficiency of the rolling stock.