Progression Mechanism of Localized Wear in Cu-impregnated Metalized Carbon Contact Strips

Localized wear of pantograph contact strips is a significant problem affecting current-collecting systems in electric railways, given that it can lead to fusion of the pantograph head and cause severe damage to the overhead contact wire. However, the causes of localized wear of carbon-based contact strips have not been fully clarified, making it difficult to establish effective prevention measures. In this study, we aimed to clarify the progression mechanism of localized wear in copper-impregnated carbon-based contact strips. We conducted on-track observations of the progression process of the localized wear, wear experiments and an analysis of the restraint behavior of the contact wire at the worn position of contact strips. As a result, it is suggested that rapid progression of localized wear may occur owning to repeated arc discharge occurring at the worn position and the subsequent restraint of the contact wire at that position.