Dynamic Performance of Single-Axle Freight Trucks

An analysis has been developed to evaluate the stability of freight cars employing single-axle freight trucks. The analysis has been used to evaluate the influence of wheel/track contact geometry, suspension stiffness, and loading on truck stability. Field data resulting from measurement of a prototype car lateral axle accelerations have been used to identify car critical speeds as a function of suspension stiffness and loading. These data have agreed closely with the analytical calculations and provided a basis for selection of car design parameters to achieve desired values of critical speed.