Synergistic Effect of Steam and Sand Grains on Sliding Wear Properties of Metal-Impregnated Pantograph Strip

Given the influence of complex and harsh working conditions, such as high temperature, rain and snow, sand, and dust, the friction and wear behavior of the pantograph–catenary system is complicated and changeable, not only increasing the maintenance cost but also seriously affecting the safety and stability of the system. In this experiment, a self-developed multi-functional friction and wear tester was used to simulate the coupling effect of the sand grain, steam, and temperature fields on a pantograph strip during its actual service by changing the normal load, the sand laying on the surface, and the steam flowing onto the friction surface of the sample. Under the same condition, the friction coefficient of the sand-steam state is larger and the average wear is approximately 9.28 times those under the dry friction state. The wear mechanism under the sand-steam state is mainly abrasive and oxidation wear, accompanied with adhesive wear.