Validation of a tangent track corrugation model with a two disk test rig

Test rig validation of theoretical predictions of the effect of various parameters on rail corrugation development is investigated. Particular focus is given to the effects of mean speed on wavelength of formation, increased traction ratio on growth rate and speed variation and friction control for corrugation mitigation. The test rig results concur with theoretically predicted trends under the conditions investigated and provide more detailed insight into the mechanism by which friction modifiers may reduce corrugation growth in tangent track conditions. Results also highlight the significance of contact patch widening during the initial stages of corrugation growth. The results also show that reductions in growth rate from nominal conditions of up to approximately 6 times are possible with speed variation and friction modifier application.