Dynamic simulation and fatigue life prediction of locomotive traction drive system

In this work, a rigid-flexible coupling dynamic model has been established to describe a specific type of locomotive traction drive system, by a parametric modeling method utilizing Creo, Ansys, and RecurDyn software systems comprehensively. With this model, the dynamic characteristics, stress, and deformation results of the system under various working conditions were evaluated via dynamic simulation and modal analysis. These results enable the prediction of contact fatigue strength of driving gear tooth surface for the estimation of its service life. On the basis of theoretical analysis, combined with the performance test of the laboratory bench, the working condition of the test gear pair’s tooth surface under the condition of equivalent load was tested, and the pitting position of the tooth surface was found to be consistent with the simulation analysis. Through the dynamic simulation and fatigue life prediction of the transmission system, it provides a theoretical basis for reasonably improving the efficiency of transmission system parts and setting up the inspection and maintenance cycle.