A Method to Control the Short Wave Track Irregularities Utilizing Axlebox Acceleration


Yoichi SUNAGA, Chief Engineer, Track Geometry & Maintenance G., Track Technology Development Div., Technological Development Dept.
Isao SANO, Engineer, Track Geometry & Maintenance G., Track Technology Development Div., Technological Development Dept.
Torasaburo IDE, Assistant Manager, Track & Structures Department, Track Technology Development Div., West Japan Railway Company

To maintain good quality of Shinkansen track, it is important to restrict a steady increase in wheel load fluctuation and rolling noise caused by the short wave track irregularities, such as rail surface roughness or inequality of supporting system, with an increase in the maximum train speed. A measurement utilizing the axlebox acceleration is proposed to evaluate wheel load fluctuation and rolling noise. Data analyses of field tests show that this measurement is more efficient, though several technical conditions are needed to inspect defective areas. This paper describes a method to identify the cause of wheel load fluctuation and rolling noise by analyzing axlebox acceleration considering its typical frequency.