Evaluation of the strength characteristics of the modernised design of the passenger car bogie frame
Abstract
The paper analyses the design solutions of modern foreign passenger car bogies, on the basis of which a modernisation of the 68-921 (68-922) bogie frame manufactured by JSC “TVSRZ” is proposed. Long-term operating experience confirms its high strength and dynamic performance due to the significant load-bearing capacity of the frame elements. However, previous studies have revealed reserve strength in the main structural components, resulting in increased tare weight of the bogie and the vehicle as a whole. The proposed modernisation involves optimisation of the cantilever sections, cross beams, central suspension elements and cross stops, resulting in improved manufacturability and a reduction in frame weight by 106 kg (from 1760 to 1654 kg). The strength of the modernised design was evaluated using the finite element method in SolidWorks Simulation under three design modes. The results show that, despite weight reduction and structural modifications, the equivalent stresses (according to the von Mises criterion) comply with regulatory requirements for all considered loading conditions.