Development of Dynamic Integral Evaluation Method of Technical State of One-Section Electric Locomotive Body

At present, one of the main problems arising from the long-term operation of one-section electric locomotives is the need to maintain their good technical condition. In this case, the determining aspect is often rapid identification of existing defects and damage to the main bearing structural elements of machine bodies, as well as preventing their development into more serious structural deviations.The aim of the study is to develop a specialized method that allows identifying defects of the main bearing structural elements of the bodies of one-section electric locomotives at the early stages of emergence and development. This method of dynamic integral evaluation is based on the analysis of partial dynamic spectrum of the electric locomotive. Based on the magnitude of the spectrum deviation relative to the theoretical one obtained from finite element modeling, it is possible to determine the approximate nature and location of damage, especially latent.The frequency spectrum of the main bearing structural elements of the bodies of one-section electric locomotives obtained in the course of the studies is rather dense and lies in the frequency range up to 20 Hz. The presence of damage reduces its value, and for the most common types of defects, this reduction is 25–30 %.The effectiveness of the practical application of the dynamic integral evaluation method is illustrated by the example of the DS3-008 machine. The method revealed hidden damage to one of the elements of the bearing frame of the front surface of the cab, which was not revealed during the standard maintenance procedure of the machine. The use of the method of dynamic integral evaluation of the technical condition of electric locomotives is quite versatile and can also be recommended for other units of railway rolling stock. In practice, the introduction of this approach will effectively prevent the development of emergencies