Wheel/Rail Creep Force Model for Wayside Application of Top-of-Rail Products Incorporating Carry-On and Consumption Effects

With the current lack of a wheel/rail creep force model that simulates the performance of a top-of-rail (TOR) product as a third body layer, this study aims to develop a model for a friction modifier. Pick-up, carry-on and consumption behaviours of the TOR-friction modifier product were thoroughly studied using a full-scale rig (FSR) and a twin disc machine. Results show that the amount of application affects the pick-up, carry-on and consumption behaviours in a FSR setting. In the twin disc setting, the normal pressure affects the consumption behaviour. The experimental data provided the basis for development of a model that allows predictions of the friction behaviour for wayside application of top-of-rail products as a function of distance to the application site and the number of wheel passes.