NTL Record

Title Tests of the Amtrak SDP-40F Train Consist Conducted on Chessie System Track
Record ID 48607
Personal Name
Creator
Tong, Ping; Brantman, Russel; Greif, Robert; Mirabella, J.
Source 260p. in various pagings
Corporate Creator John A. Volpe National Transportation Systems Center (U.S.)
Corporate
Contributor
United States. Department of Transportation. Federal Railroad Administration. Office of Research and Development
Publisher United States. Federal Railroad Administration. Office of Research and Development
Publication Date 19790500
Language English
Abstract This report describes tests of an SDP-40F train consist conducted on Chessie System track during June 1977. The tests consisted of the operation of two typical AMTRAK passenger consists, one powered by two SDP-40F's and the other by two E-8's, over a variety of track conditions. The objectives of the tests were to compare dynamic performance of the SDP-40F locomotive with the E-8, and to determine the sensitivity of the SDP-40F response to track geometry variations, operational parameters and truck configuration changes. Data was obtained on the lateral and vertical wheel/rail loads and carbody accelerations under a variety of speeds, track geometry and track surface conditions. Modifications of the SDP-40F trucks were also made and tested. Each locomotive was tested in a consist representative of passenger service over a variety of operational track conditions. In general, the SDP-40F lateral wheel/rail loads in selected curves showed a tendency to increase above curve balance speed at a faster rate than that of the E-8. A means was developed for accurately predicting lead axle lateral force levels in 2 degree curves as a function of speed and track geometry variations. A new strain gage configuration was developed which will greatly improve the accuracy of lateral rail loads measurements.
Rosap ID dot:10115
Rosap URL https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/10115
TRT Terms Railroad tracks; Crash investigation; Dynamic tests; Safety engineering; Regression analysis; Performance tests; Railroad trains; Train track dynamics; Derailments; L/V ratio; Sanding; Locomotives; Geometric curves
General Subjects Amtrak; Chessie System; Lateral loads
Classification AGR - INFRASTRUCTURE - Railroads;
NTL - RAIL TRANSPORTATION - RAIL TRANSPORTATION;
NTL - RAIL TRANSPORTATION - Rail Safety
Geographical
Coverage
United States
Report Number DOT-TSC-FRA-79-14; FRA/ORD-79/19
Resource type Tech Report
URL https://ntlrepository.blob.core.windows.net/lib/48000/48600/48607/DOT-TSC-FRA-79-14.pdf
Format PDF
Database NTL Digital Repository