Experimental evaluation of residual deflection and structural stiffness of the UzTE16M locomotive frame under static loading conditions

The structural reliability of locomotive frames is essential for ensuring the safety and durability of railway operations. This study presents a full-scale experimental assessment of the residual deflection and stiffness of the UzTE16M locomotive frame under static loading, supported by finite element method (FEM) validation. Tests were performed on three locomotives (Nos. 005, 010, and 019) at “O‘ztemiryo‘lmashta’mir” JSC under loads of 15, 30, and 40 tons, with deflections measured at three control points. The load–deflection response was nearly linear up to 30 tons, confirming elastic behavior, while at 40 tons a slight deviation appeared, with a maximum deflection of 11.2 mm. Residual deflections of 2-6 mm remained within regulatory limits. FEM analysis reproduced identical boundary conditions, showing a maximum von Mises stress of 127 MPa – below the 235 MPa yield strength – and a deviation of less than 5 % from test results. The integrated experimental-numerical approach effectively evaluates stiffness degradation and residual deflection, offering a reliable framework for fatigue diagnostics, condition-based maintenance, and extending the service life of modernized locomotive frames.