In Situ Analytical Method of Interfacial Substances between Wheel and Rail

In this paper, the authors describe experimental investigations of in situ X-ray analysis of interfacial substances between the wheel and the rail. These substances, including iron rust and lubricants, can impact the adhesion coefficient between wheel and rail. Using a portable X-ray analyzer called a XRDF, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyses are conducted. The XRDF employed a fixture for setting the XRDF head above the rail by making it override the rail. These analyses revealed tendencies regarding the decrease in iron rust and the spreading characteristics of lubricants during the passage of vehicles. The authors suggest that in situ analysis will be one of the most useful tools for providing information about wheel/rail phenomena.