Improving dynamic stability and strength investigation of a locomotive bolster-type bogie frame through fabricated design and damper implementation

This study investigates the fatigue strength of anti-yaw damper brackets within a fabricated bolster specifically designed for freight locomotives. The impetus for this research arose from previous issues associated with casting bolsters, which notably lacked viscous yaw dampers—although secondary suspension snubbers contributed to overall damping—and frequently experienced failures during operation. These shortcomings highlighted the urgent need for a new design approach, leading to the development of a fabricated bolster that incorporates two anti-yaw dampers. This innovative design significantly enhances the dynamic stability of the bogie frame. To thoroughly evaluate the performance of the fabricated bolster, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was conducted to assess both static and fatigue strength in accordance with EN 13749 standard. This analysis took into consideration various operational speeds that the locomotives might encounter. Furthermore, the integrity of the welds in the damper brackets was meticulously evaluated based on DVS 1612 guideline. The results of this comprehensive study indicate that the fabricated bolster not only improves dynamic behavior but also enhances fatigue resistance when compared to traditional casting designs. This advancement ensures greater stability and durability for locomotive operations, ultimately contributing to safer and more reliable railway systems.