Mitigation of Wheel Squeal and Flanging Noise on the Australian Rail Network

Summary

Standard practice in Australia is to differentiate between the two curve squeal effects, namely tonal “wheel squeal” and the more broad-band (and often intermittent) metal-on-metal rubbing noise referred to as “flanging”. This paper presents results from recent curve squeal investigations and mitigation trials on the Australian rail network, covering curves varying in radius (under 200m to over 400m), carrying both passenger and freight traffic on standard and narrow gauge ballast track with either timber or concrete sleepers. Treatments include gauge face lubrication; top of rail friction modification and the maintenance and modification of track and rolling stock.

While the results are generally consistent with other research, observations suggest that curve squeal may be governed by two different effects. At some sites, curve squeal appears to be controlled by prevailing friction conditions and treatment of these sites with friction modification can be very effective. But at sites where poor curving performance of certain bogies is the controlling factor, friction modification is ineffective and maintenance of individual items of rolling stock is the only cost effective option. Most curves show a combination of both of these effects.