Running dynamics simulation of locomotive type Ge 4/4
Customer: Rhaetian Railway, Switzerland
Project tasks
- Creation of simulation model for locomotive type Ge 4/4-III
- Eigenvalue and stability simulations
- Result evaluation and comparison with requirements
- Optimisation proposals for wheel and bogie parameters
Our Approach
The RhB is planning to increase the maximum speed of its Ge 4/4-III locomotives from 100 km/h to 120 km/h. To check the feasibility of this project, the dynamic effects of an increase in speed are to be analysed using simulations. In addition, possible measures to improve running stability are to be identified and a verification report prepared for the approval authority.
PROSE created a simulation model of the Ge 4/4-III locomotive in the SIMPACK software and analysed the dynamic effects of an increase in speed from 100 km/h to 120 km/h. Various wheel and rail profiles were considered. Eigenvalue calculations and non-linear stability analyses were also performed. The results were compared with the requirements of EN 14363, and possible measures to improve running stability were proposed.
Customer benefit
The running dynamics simulation of the Ge 4/4-III at 120 km/h confirmed the locomotive’s safe and stable running on the Rhaetian Railway network. The analysis also identified potential for improving the wheel and rail profiles, which would better adapt to the curve radii and reduce wear.
