A High-Temperature Resistant Railway Vibration Monitoring System Based on Piezoelectric Ceramics and Silicon Carbide Devices

This paper presents a novel sensor design for real time monitoring in high-speed rail systems. The main objective is to develop an integrated sensor that combines a high sensitivity piezoelectric ceramic element with a silicon carbide based linear amplifier to overcome challenges in harsh operating environments. Finite element simulations validate the robust dynamic response of the piezoelectric element under load. The design of the front-end vibration monitoring and amplification circuit achieves a temperature tolerance of at least 200 °C, an amplification gain between 17 and 21 dB, and a frequency response spanning 0 to 10 kHz. A high-temperature resistant flexible printed circuit board ensures robust attachment to the rail surface, while integrated temperature compensation circuitry enhances the accuracy of the sensor's signal processing. This innovative approach addresses the limitation of conventional sensors that are prone to damage from the extreme heat generated during rail grinding. Although experimental validation remains pending, the proposed design shows promising potential for enhancing safety, durability, and maintenance strategies in high-speed rail systems.