Modeling and dynamic characteristics analysis of the locomotive considering the electric transmission system

Read full text
Authors: Ziwei Zhou, Zaigang Chen, Maksym Spiryagin, Jamshid Aghaei, Colin Cole, Wanming Zhai
Cited by: 1
References: 29

Abstract

The electromechanical transmission system is essential for locomotive functionality, as it regulates the output torque from the traction motor and transfers it to the wheel-rail interface for traction or braking. However, existing locomotive dynamics research often neglects the influence of the electric transmission system on critical components, such as the traction motor, supporting bearing, gear transmission system, and wheel-rail interface. This study seeks to fill this gap. We present a spatial locomotive-track dynamics model that includes the entire electromechanical transmission path. This model encompasses the electric transmission system, traction motor, motor bearing, and mechanical transmission system. By integrating the dynamics model with the electromechanical transmission system, we investigate the overall dynamic performance of both mechanical and electrical systems. This analysis considers external excitations from wheel-rail contact and internal excitations from the gear mesh and electromagnetic coupling interfaces. To validate the dynamic responses of the locomotive electromechanical system under actual tractive conditions, we compare simulation results with data collected from field tests. Theoretical findings highlight the significant effects of the electric transmission system and its control on gear mesh force, motor bearing roller-race contact force, and wheel-rail creep force. Notably, incorporating the electric transmission system for rotor speed stabilization contributes to a reduction in friction force between the motor bearing roller and race. This research enhances our understanding of the complex interaction between the electromechanical transmission system and locomotive dynamics.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Railway Engineering and Dynamics Gear and Bearing Dynamics Analysis Railway Systems and Energy Efficiency

Publication details

Journal / source
Chinese Journal of Mechanical Engineering
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Volume
39
Pages
100099–100099
Publication date
1 January 2026
Language
EN