Determining patterns in the longitudinal loading of the modernized carrier structure of an open wagon for transporting long cargoes

This study investigates processes related to the occurrence, acceptance, and redistribution of loads in the modernized supporting structure of a railroad open wagon. The task addressed is to improve the efficiency of transporting long-length cargo by rail. The work proposes that the bearing structure of an open wagon should be modernized by dismantling the end walls or doors. This makes it possible to reduce the sprung mass of the bearing structure of the open wagon by more than 1 t and, accordingly, to increase the load capacity by the same amount. To substantiate the proposed modernization, the strength of the bearing structure of an open wagon moving in a train was calculated. The longitudinal loads acting on the bearing structure of the open wagon were determined by mathematical modeling. The calculated acceleration value was taken into account when studying the stress state of the bearing structure of the open wagon. It was established that its strength is maintained as the calculated stresses are 14.5% lower than the permissible ones. In addition, as part of the study, a modal analysis of the bearing structure of the open wagon was conducted. The calculation results showed that traffic safety from the point of view of modal analysis is observed. A feature of the proposed modernization is that, if necessary, the bearing structure of the open wagon can be returned to the original version. The scope of practical application of the reported results is the transportation industry, in particular railroad transport. A condition for practical use of the results is symmetrical loading of the bearing structure of the open wagon with cargo. This study could contribute to compiling recommendations for increasing the efficiency of transportation of long-length cargo by rail.