Application of the Finite Element Method in the Development of Improved Railroad Car Wheel Designs

This paper discusses the use of the finite element method in the development of an improved 33-inch (.838 m) railroad wheel that has been introduced into service. Calculated elastic stresses resulting from the thermal and mechanical loads are presented for an existing wheel design and for the new wheel design. Validation of the calculated stresses is by experimental data developed on a railroad dynamometer. Drag test data for the new wheel design is compared to historical data.