DEM Analysis of Track Ballast for Track Ballast–Wheel Interaction Simulation

Abstract

This study aims to suggest a rational analysis method for a track ballast–wheel interaction that could be further developed to model the interaction in a train-derailment event, based on the discrete-element method (DEM). Track ballast is filled with gravel to form the trackbed. Although finite-element analysis (FEA) is widely applied in structural analysis, track ballast cannot be analyzed using conventional FEA because this approach does not allow separation of elements that share nodes. The DEM has been developed to analyze the dynamic behavior of separable objects, assuming that the objects are rigid. Therefore, track ballast can be modeled as separable rigid pieces of gravel, and its dynamic behavior can be analyzed using a rational contact model. In this study, a rational numerical strategy for track ballast–wheel interaction was investigated using the DEM approach. The suggested analysis method was validated through comparison with the experimental results of a drop test. In addition, case studies were conducted to investigate the effects of the contact-model parameters on the simulation result.