Innovative method of determining the coefficient of friction in the «pad - wheel» system

In this article, the currently existing methods for determining such a technical parameter as the sliding friction coefficient were considered. The coefficient of friction is one of the main parameters characterizing the operation of tribological pairs of any engineering system. Stable and efficient operation of tribological pairs in such systems, along with high strength and fatigue characteristics, are not only the basis of safety, but also a promising direction in terms of economic benefits in the design and operation of various devices and systems. Accordingly, this area of research is very relevant for the railway industry, and for railway rolling stock in particular. This is caused by a large number of friction pairs in different nodes of passenger and freight cars, locomotives, ensuring safe and uninterrupted movement of rolling stock as a whole on iron drogs. Tribological processes are important both directly during movement and during braking processes. In this matter, the factor of determining and analyzing the sliding friction coefficient comes to the fore. One of these friction pairs is the «pad-wheel» system, which is the executive body of the braking system of a railway train. Optimization of contact in this system is one of the determining factors for the growth of braking efficiency during braking, increasing the working life of the elements of the friction pair, reducing the likelihood of defects. The search for new approaches to the study of friction issues is a direct catalyst for scientific and technological progress in the engineering industry.