Theory of friction and oscillation of two elastic bodies in contact and its application to differential rotation of railw ay wheel treads

Abstract A modification of the theory of friction in the contact of two elastic bodies is proposed. The causes for development of high-frequency (above 1000 Hz) oscillations in the wheel–rail contact as well as their expediency and optimality in comparison with the identical characteristics of monotonous rolling of bodies are analyzed. A principle of rigid wheelset operation with the feasibility of differential rotation of wheel treads (shown by tests under real conditions at transit vehicle and tram-car work) is explained on the basis of the modified friction theory.