An attempt to use the results of microtomographic studies of the surface after the period of operation in the numerical analysis of wheel-rail contacts

Under the passing train in the rail, a three-dimensional state of stress is created. The mutual forces exerted by the wheel on the rail consist of the normal (vertical) and longitudinal and transverse forces of the tangential force. The vertical force has a static component derived from the weight of the rail vehicle, a quasi-static component derived from the unbalance in the curves and a random component resulting from the vibrations of the vehicle mass as a result of unevenness of the track and flange rim impacts due to serration. The distribution of tangential forces in the wheel-rail system depends on the shape and size of the contact area, the slip values and the state of the running surface (surface topography).