Testing the methodology for justifying the service life of freight cars based on the results of analog car testing

Purpose: the development and implementation of advanced load-bearing metal structures for bodies and frames, the unification of elements and assemblies using the most proven designs in operation, the technological refinement of individual elements, systems, and subsystems of cars; improving reliability, maintainability, and enhancing maintenance systems for rolling stock raises the issue of determining the service life of freight cars, considering the economic aspects of production and operation. Method: to confirm the service life of freight cars, an assessment and comparison of the results of durability and operational dynamicstrength tests of analog cars are carried out, as well as digital modeling in the “Universal Mechanism” software package. Results: as a result of testing this methodology, the service life of the 19-1272-01 model hopper car, which is 32 years, was confirmed. Practical Significance: the testing of the service life justification methodology was carried out on hopper cars of models 19-1272-01 and 19-1298 produced by JSC “Ruzkhimmash”.