Table of Contents
Does a train use friction?
The static frictional force on the train is between the wheels and the track. The frictional force on the cars is between the axle and the wheels (so, I cheated a little bit here). As long as the frictional force on the train is greater than the frictional force on all the cars, the whole system can accelerate.
Why is there no friction between the train and the track?
Train wheels are typically a high quality steel and are on another (usually lower quality) steel rail. The illusion that there is “no” friction comes from the enormous weight of the train and the speed in which it is travelling. These two variables (weight and speed) compound to create Momentum.
What is the friction on a train?
The coefficient of friction between the wheels and rail is at most 0.5 on a dry rail [11] and 0.3 on a wet one, and less in frost. To be on the safe side, it is usual to assume a value of 0.2 in daily operation.
What force keeps the train on the track?
Since gravity pulls a train downward and centrifugal force pulls it outward, a track banked at just the right angle can spread the forces more evenly between a train’s inner and outer wheels, and help to keep it on the track.
Why would a train need more than one locomotive?
The Short Answer. Trains have multiple engines to provide more power to pull the train. Each locomotive has a certain amount of pulling power (called “tractive effort”), which is related to how many horsepower the diesel engine in the locomotive has.
How do trains stay on rail?
The wheels on each side of a train car are connected with a metal rod called an axle. This axle keeps the two train wheels moving together, both turning at the same speed when the train is moving. This is where the wheels’ geometry comes in. To help the wheels stay on the track their shape is usually slightly conical.
How do trains get grip on the track?
Train wheels aren’t perfect cylinders. The wheel bevels are specifically designed so that when the train goes around a corner it stays on the tracks. The wheels that have to travel a greater distance have a greater diameter, and everything stays aligned. The end result is a train that stays on the tracks.
Can you buy a boxcar?
Caboose and Rail Car Sales Websites You can buy a caboose, a boxcar, or even a sterling rail. Some of these websites have full refurbished rail cars listed as well. The prices are a little higher, but you won’t have to wait for something to pop up on Craigslist.
Why do trains have such little friction?
Trains have very little friction between the wheel and the rail-head, thus, allowing trains to move at quicker speeds on level ground than cars, which have rubber tires, thus, aerodynamic drag is greatly increased. Contrary to popular belief, the surface of the wheel that makes contact with the rail-head is merely the size of a small coin.
How does the friction between wheel and rail affect maintenance and logistics?
The friction between wheel and rail has a major impact on maintenance and logistics because it determines the wheel and rail wear, in case it is too high, and reduces the ability to brake and to accelerate properly, in case friction is too low.
How do track trains get traction?
Trains get traction because of the immense weight of the locomotives, and the friction generated between the wheel and rail head. Furthermore, in less than ideal weather conditions, sand is sprayed on the rail head to reduce wheel slip.
Why do trains have tires on their wheels?
However, when a train begins to climb a significant gradient, the weight of the locomotive produces drag and slows it down. This is where a car with tires has an advantage, as it creates more friction, and allows the car to crest the gradient without issue.