Prediction and analysis of wheel flange wear on small curved track considering wheel-rail conformal and lubricated contact

Wheel flange wear on curved tracks is a significant issue that poses a threat to the safety of rail vehicles and leads to increased maintenance costs for railway operators. This study aims to develop a numerical model to predict wheel flange wear on small radius curves. The model integrates an efficient wheel-rail conformal contact model with laboratory-tested wear coefficients. By using virtual penetration and influence coefficients for conformal geometries, the model accurately simulates the conformal contact between the wheel flange and the rail gauge corner. The validity of the wheel flange wear prediction model is confirmed through field tracking testing. Using the proposed model, the effects of track layout parameters and solid lubricants on wheel flange wear are investigated. This study provides theoretical guidance for the operation and maintenance of the wheel-rail system to reduce wear.