Design of a wheel slide protection system for articulated freight wagon

The integration of Wheel Slide Protection (WSP) systems into freight railway vehicles has recently regained interest, driven by the growing affordability of such technologies and their potential to reduce wheel and rail wear during braking. While common in passenger trains, WSP is still rare in freight applications. Its adoption could improve safety, reduce maintenance, and increase vehicle availability. This work presents the design and validation of a WSP system for an articulated freight wagon. A detailed numerical model was developed, including suspension dynamics, a multibody rigging model, pneumatic braking components, and a wheel–rail contact formulation capable of simulating degraded adhesion and varying normal loads. A control logic was implemented to estimate longitudinal velocity and modulate braking pressure to prevent wheel locking. A dedicated hardware in the loop (HIL) test bench was built to experimentally validate the system. Results show that the WSP avoids wheel lockup, reduces stopping distance, and preserves reservoir pressure within regulatory limits. This study demonstrates the feasibility of applying WSP to freight wagons, offering a validated solution that enhances braking safety and performance under challenging conditions. This work represents one of the first practical demonstrations of a WSP system specifically adapted for freight wagons. The integrated modelling, design, and experimental validation approach offers valuable insights into the feasibility of retrofitting WSP systems onto existing freight fleets. The results presented contribute to a broader understanding of how advanced braking control can enhance safety, reduce wear, and improve the overall performance of freight rail transport under adverse operating conditions

Progettazione di un sistema antipattinante per carri merci articolati