Structural safety and fatigue reliability assessments of a metro-train bolster

Abstract

This article presents an economical and efficient way to assess the structural safety and fatigue reliability of the bolster, a key structure for the metro-train. First, its finite element model was validated based on the comparison between numerical results and experimental data of stresses and displacements recorded during a static test. Then, the fatigue life of the bolster under loading scheme was predicted using Gerber diagram, in which the validated finite element model was applied to determine the weak points, and its structural safety was also evaluated by a full-scale fatigue test and non-destructive test method. Finally, the metro-train bolster was modeled as a series system of weak points, and a new fatigue reliability model for mechanical component derived based on stress-life interference model was used to assess its fatigue reliability under the application of the design passenger number spectra. The results show that not only does this bolster satisfy the structural safety requirement during its service life, but also its fatigue reliability is more than 99.993% after 30-year service under normal atmospheric conditions.