Modelling Facilities
Boundary element modelling of rail defects
Boundary Element modelling is conducted using the BEASY modelling package, and the specialist fracture analysis code FRANC3D. These packages have been used extensively by the group to investigate rail rolling contact fatigue cracking.
Bespoke software for modelling of rail defects & maintenance
Many rail failure processes take place over thousands or millions of contact cycles. To model cycle by cycle damage accumulation needs the fastest code possible as well as the latest computer technology. The group has extensive experience in application of C programming for fatigue modelling to achieve realistic run times as well as realistic fatigue cycle numbers.
LS-Dyna to model the effect of blast loads on train bodies
In the event of a blast load from a terrorist or accidental explosion train vehicle bodies deform and occupants are subject to air pressure peaks which depend on how the vehicle responds to the blast load. LS-Dyna is being applied to model the effect of explosions on vehicles and their occupants.
WheelBASE – rail and wheel wear database
Data has been gathered from open literature including: Twin disk tests, wheel/rail simulators, and field data to form a database of rail and wheel wear rates.