Fatigue failure investigation in MRT rails with an internal crack

• Main Author: Cheong, Xiang Shun
• Other Authors: Xiao Zhongmin
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2019
• Subjects: DRNTU::Engineering::Mechanical engineering
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/78384
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

Due to the advancement in technology in the railway industry, higher speed and heavier load can be achieved. However, it also results in an increased contact stress on rails which brings about rolling contact fatigue (RCF) between contact surface of the rail and wheel. This study aims to understand the effects of cyclic rolling contact on crack initiation and crack propagation in the rail. Simulation is done on the ABAQUS software using the three-dimensional XFEM model. To achieve the aim of the study, different crack configurations are carried out; such as varying crack length, crack position, crack displacement and two distinct crack positions. All simulations are ran under the same constraints; which are continuous compressive loading and traction stress. Analysis of numerical simulation data is analysed based on 1) the relationship of crack length growth and number of cycles and 2) graphic image of simulation. These results would then be used to investigate the crack behaviour in rail due to cyclic rolling contact.