Design, modelling, testing and application of hydraulic suspension components for rail vehicles: a state-of-the-art review

Abstract Rail transport is a safe, efficient and ecological way to meet the growing demand for a more connected and developed society. In the last decades, the development of passenger rail vehicles with improved ride quality and higher commercial speed have been supported by the research and optimization of new suspension components. Hydraulic suspension components (HSCs) represent a significant share of the most recent innovations proposed in this context. This paper provides a state-of-the-art review of the design, modelling, testing and application of HSCs, also discussing the effect of degradation and failure in these components. The paper aims to highlight the most recent advancements in these fields and the emerging trends that will likely be addressed in the near future to further support the development of new rail vehicles.