Study on the application amount optimization of water-based friction modifier based on field experiments

The utilization of friction modifiers (FMs) can reduce the adhesion coefficient of the top-of-rail to a moderate level, yielding a series of benefits. In this study, the influence of the FM application amount on the adhesion coefficient, noise, and braking distance was explored under field conditions. Results showed that when the FM application amount exceeded threshold values, the braking distance of the locomotive was greatly extended and the friction control performance of FM reached saturation. The FM application amount and application frequency were put forward through a simplified calculation process, which gave values of 0.33 mL/axle and 10axles/application, respectively. These application parameters achieve the desired intermediate friction level along with appropriate reductions in the noise and the lateral force.