The optimum design of an onboard friction control system between wheel and rail in a railway system for improved curving negotiation

In the subway lines of Tokyo (Tokyo Metro), there are many tight curves that may cause squeal noise, excessive rail/wheel wear and rail corrugation. To solve these serious problems, an onboard friction control system with friction modifier has been developed by the authors and has been equipped on commercial trains as a trial. With this system, the balance between supply and consumption of friction modifier is very important. That is to say, in order to obtain the maximum effect of friction control steadily. it is natural that an appropriate quantity of friction modifier should be required. In this report, results of experiments with a two-roller-rig testing machine, and analysis of the observed data in commercial train tests are introduced. In addition, the authors considered the method to realize the appropriate balance between supply and consumption of friction modifier.