Study of the Feasibility of Upgrading the Universal Flat Wagon for Transporting Long Cargoes

This article describes the possibilities of using universal flat wagons to transport long cargoes and suggests measures for upgrading them, which involve the installation of superstructures on the load-bearing structures to keep the cargo from overturning. The study was conducted using the flat wagon model 13-401. Several options for implementing such superstructures have been considered. The load-bearing structure of the flat wagon was modeled as a rod system. The most rational option for upgrading was evaluated by assessing the force factors acting in the structure under the influence of external loads. According to the chosen upgrade option, a spatial model of the bearing structure of the flat wagon was built, and its strength was calculated using the finite element method. The proposed option was found to be appropriate. The results of the research can be used to improve the efficiency of transportation of long cargoes by universal flat wagons.