A method to enhance the performance of elastic damping component to improve tribological behavior at the high-speed train braking interface: Deformation optimization through perforation structure

The deformation capability of elastic damping component (EDC) significantly influences the tribological behavior at high-speed train braking interfaces. The key prerequisite to fully exploit its efficacy lies in ensuring that the EDC exhibits appropriate deformation. In this work, we propose aperture processing in different regions of the EDC to optimize its deformation area and improve the interfaces tribological behavior. The EDC was mounted on the rear side of the friction block, and experiments on friction braking were carried out using a custom-built simulation rig designed to test the braking performance. This enables the study of the friction and wear characteristics across different EDC conditions, along with the characteristics related to friction-induced vibration and noise (FIVN). A finite element model (FEM) was developed reflecting the primary structure of the test rig, with initial surface wear simulations conducted on the blocks to achieve wear surfaces approximating the experimental outcomes. Implicit dynamic analysis (IDA) was then conducted based on this foundation. The enhancement in tribological behavior through optimizing the EDC deformation area was analyzed by integrating test results with finite element analysis (FEA) findings. The results indicate that aperture processing in different regions of the EDC has no significant effect on its dynamic response but can significantly alter its deformation characteristics, thereby achieving optimization of the EDC deformation. Adjusting apertures in various sections of the EDC markedly affects the development pattern and strength of FIVN. However, this approach maintains the fundamental characteristics of the braking system. Aperture processing enabling more extensive deformation in the EDC can notably interrupt FIVN continuity, showing clear intermittent characteristics, while potentially increasing FIVN intensity. The EDC mainly affects the tribological behavior by influencing contact characteristics such as the oscillation intensity of contact area and frictional force, thereby altering the characteristics of FIVN. The overall deformation of the EDC has a considerable effect on the movement of braking interface debris, as well as wear patterns, eccentric wear, and contact plateaus characteristics. An improperly designed deformation area in the EDC can lead to excessive softness, challenging the block's ability to maintain consistent contact with the brake disc. This issue often causes pronounced eccentric wear on the block and considerable material detachment at the wear site, which triggers intense FIVN.