Experimental Validation of Mathematical Models for Diesel-Electric Shunting Locomotive Traction Curve

Abstract: In this study, dynamical modelling and calculation of the traction curve of a shunting locomotive which have been designed and produced by TURASAS (Turkish Railway Vehicles Industry Inc.) (Formerly known as TULOMSAS (Turkish Locomotive & Engine Industry Inc.)) have been done. The longitudinal dynamics of the vehicle are calculated to determine its hauling capacity. The results are compared with the experimental results to see the locomotive has enough performance in terms of traction force and slippage. The experimental results show that the constructed model is calculating the tractive effort accurately for these types of shunting locomotives. The same model structure is tried with high-speed train parameters and the results are examined. The model has been changed according to calculate the traction curve of a high-speed train by using Muller Formula, and the obtained traction curve has been optimized by changing the weight distribution of the train between the driven and non-driven axis. Matlab-Simulink is used to create the proposed models and to realize the simulations. In this way, a comparison is obtained, and the key points are emphasized when calculating the traction curves of different types of railway vehicles. The results show that these types of mathematical models can play an important role to determine the specifications of the vehicles, and to configure sub-systems used in vehicles.

Keywords: Traction Curves, Diesel Electric, Shunting Locomotive, Locomotive, High Speed Trains